The Aegis Graham Bell Awards (AGBA) have been promoting and recognizing innovative solutions in India for the past 12 years. The 13th edition of AGBA held on February 24, 2023, at the NDMC Convention Center in New Delhi, was an event that celebrated remarkable innovations from a diverse range of companies, including large corporations and startups from all around the nation. The event recognized and celebrated the best innovations in India across a total of 37 categories, including innovative solutions in domains such as AI/ML, AR/VR, big data, cybersecurity, blockchain, social innovation, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT), among others.
Back in 2022, Innovate Labs, a disruptive technology startup in the immersive reality space, submitted its product Design Xperience Suite, a unique and first-of-its-kind AR-based solution for the automotive and mobility industry, for the innovation in AR/VR category. Design Xperience Suite has been successfully implemented with 2 Indian OEMs, and several other OEMs are at advanced stages of evaluation, both domestically and internationally. The features and strengths of the product also helped Innovate Labs, in 2022, to be selected by Meta (formerly Facebook, a global leader in Metaverse and Immersive Technologies) and IIT-Delhi as one of the 10 best Xtended Reality Start-ups in the country.
After a rigorous evaluation process, and the finalists of the 13th edition of Aegis Graham Bell Awards emerged as the top three contenders in their respective categories. Among the winners was Innovate Labs, which was awarded the best in category for Innovation in AR/VR.
Atul Marwaha, the founder and managing director of Innovate Labs, expressed his joy, saying, “Thrilled to win the ‘innovation in AR/VR category’ at the 13th Aegis Graham Bell Award! We couldn’t have done it without the incredible support and encouragement from everyone, especially the amazing team at Innovate Labs Private Limited. Our technological lead in the Extended Reality space is just the beginning, and we’re excited to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation. Thank you, everyone, for being part of our journey!”
The 13th edition of the Aegis Graham Bell Awards was truly a celebration of innovation and technology in India. We look forward to pushing more boundaries and be back for the 14th edition of AGBA.
About Innovate Labs: At Innovate Labs, we believe that innovation is not just limited in the context of technology but should be experienced in everything we do. Therefore, we challenge the status quo every day, from client engagement to talent acquisition, from digital twins to digital enterprise, and everything in between. Combining our passion for challenging the normal and deep expertise in digital engineering, we offer a unique perspective on how technology can solve your business needs & challenges. Innovate Labs is a disruptive technology startup in the immersive reality space. We leverage virtual, augmented and extended reality to solve some of the most challenging Business requirements in the industry.
We work towards simplifying the adoption of immersive technologies and work with our customers in identifying the right tools, building relevant use cases, and helping roll out, implement, and deploy Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Mixed Reality Applications on a large scale.
About Aegis Graham Bell Awards: Aegis Graham Bell Awards, named after the renowned innovator Alexander Graham Bell, was established in 2010 by the Aegis School of Business, Data Science, and Cyber Security. The awards aim to recognize and celebrate the achievements of innovators and their innovations and are supported by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, NITI Aayog (the apex public policy think tank of the Government of India), and Skill India (a campaign launched by the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship).
In industries where handling complex machinery involves high risks, effective training is crucial for safety, skill development, and operational efficiency. To address this, we developed Immersive Training Simulators, including FTA Crane and EOT Crane simulators, leveraging Virtual Reality (VR) to recreate realistic operational scenarios.
Operators can practice hands-on tasks in a risk-free, fully immersive environment, gaining confidence and improving accuracy without endangering equipment or personnel. The simulators provide interactive feedback, real-time guidance, and performance tracking, ensuring consistent learning outcomes.
By integrating VR-based immersive simulators into training programs, industries can enhance workforce preparedness, reduce operational risks, and achieve higher productivity, setting a new benchmark for industrial training solutions.
In the highly regulated aviation industry, precision and efficiency in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) processes are critical. To address this, we developed an AR-based Aircraft MRO Work Instructions solution that delivers interactive, step-by-step guidance directly to technicians on the hangar floor.
Using Augmented Reality overlays, 3D models, and real-time instructions, the system ensures technicians can perform complex maintenance tasks accurately, safely, and efficiently. This immersive approach reduces errors, shortens downtime, and improves compliance with aviation standards.
By integrating AR technology into aircraft MRO workflows, the solution empowers airlines and maintenance teams to enhance productivity, maintain operational excellence, and streamline training, redefining how maintenance work instructions are delivered in the aviation industry.
In today’s fast-paced market, demonstrating products effectively to clients and customers is critical for engagement and conversion. To address this, we created a Virtual Product Showcase solution using Virtual Reality (VR) and immersive technologies that brings products to life in interactive 3D environments.
Through realistic VR simulations, 360° views, and interactive features, users can explore products in detail, experience functionality, and make informed decisions—all without physical prototypes. This approach enhances customer understanding, engagement, and satisfaction, while reducing costs and logistical challenges associated with traditional product demonstrations.
By integrating immersive VR technology, our Virtual Product Showcase empowers brands to deliver impactful presentations, accelerate decision-making, and create memorable experiences, setting a new benchmark for how products are showcased in the digital era.
In today’s competitive FMCG landscape, capturing customer attention and driving engagement is more challenging than ever. To address this, we developed an Augmented Reality (AR) solution for retail and consumer engagement that brings products to life and delivers immersive shopping experiences.
Through interactive AR overlays, 3D product visualizations, and gamified experiences, consumers can explore products, understand features, and engage with brands in-store or via mobile devices. This not only enhances brand recall and purchase intent but also provides real-time insights into customer preferences and behavior.
With seamless integration into retail environments and campaigns, our AR-based FMCG engagement solution empowers brands to boost sales, increase customer interaction, and create memorable shopping experiences. By leveraging immersive technology, we are redefining how FMCG brands connect with their audience in the digital age.
In fast-paced industrial environments, relying on traditional paper-based Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) can slow down workflows, create inconsistencies, and increase the risk of errors. To solve this, we developed an immersive SOPs Digitalization solution that transforms conventional manuals into interactive digital formats using AR, VR, and immersive technologies.
This solution delivers step-by-step digital guidance, interactive workflows, and real-time instructions, enabling employees to perform tasks accurately and efficiently. By replacing static documents with dynamic, visual SOPs, organizations can ensure compliance, operational consistency, and faster skill adoption across teams.
With support for multilingual instructions and intuitive navigation, the digital SOP system empowers industries to enhance productivity, reduce errors, and drive operational excellence. By integrating immersive technology into everyday processes, SOPs Digitalization sets a new standard for effective workforce training and process management.
In modern industrial environments, on-the-job training plays a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency and workforce safety. Traditional methods can be time-consuming, prone to errors, and often disrupt shopfloor operations. To address this, we introduced an immersive Shopfloor Training solution using Augmented Reality (AR).
Leveraging AR overlays, 3D models, and real-time guidance, the solution enables employees to receive step-by-step instructions directly on the shopfloor, making training interactive, intuitive, and highly effective. Workers can practice complex tasks without risking equipment or production delays, ensuring faster learning, higher accuracy, and consistent skill development across teams.
With multilingual support and adaptable workflows, this AR-based shopfloor training system empowers industries to streamline processes, improve safety compliance, and enhance overall productivity. By integrating immersive technology into everyday operations, we are redefining how industrial training meets the demands of the modern workforce.
In today’s fast-evolving industrial landscape, effective operator training is critical to ensure workplace safety, efficiency, and workforce upskilling. Traditional classroom sessions and on-the-job training often fall short in delivering risk-free, hands-on experience. To address this, we developed an immersive Operator Training solution powered by Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).
This innovative training approach allows operators to practice real-world tasks in simulated environments, gaining practical exposure without real-world risks. Using interactive 3D simulations and AR overlays, operators receive step-by-step guidance, build confidence, and reduce errors while handling machinery and equipment. From safety drills to task execution, the system ensures faster learning, higher accuracy, and consistent skill development across the workforce.
By combining AR & VR training with advanced performance tracking, this solution empowers industries to improve safety compliance, operational efficiency, and employee productivity. As industries embrace digital transformation, immersive operator training is setting a new benchmark in how organizations prepare their workforce for the future.
Ford: uses Virtual Reality (VR) in its design and development phases. Engineers employ VR simulations to test vehicle designs and safety features before physical prototypes are built, streamlining the development process.
SAAB Mixed Reality Training: Integrating MR to Simulate Complex Combat Environments, Enabling Joint Force Training Exercises with Land, Sea, and Air Units. Features adaptive scenarios that evolve based on trainee decisions and actions.
Osso VR: Osso VR utilizes immersive virtual reality simulations to train surgeons, allowing them to practice complex procedures in a risk-free environment. The platform enhances surgical skills through realistic, hands-on experiences. Medical professionals can access a wide range of training modules anytime, anywhere. This leads to improved precision and better patient outcomes.
Mars Inc: Implementing Mixed Reality for factory floor training, combining digital overlays with real-world machinery to streamline equipment operation and maintenance processes. Technicians receive real-time, hands-free guidance, reducing errors and accelerating the onboarding of new staff.
Procter & Gamble: Using Virtual Reality for product innovation, allowing teams to prototype new packaging designs and test shopper experiences in virtual retail environments. This enables faster feedback loops, helping brands optimize shelf placement and design elements before launch.
PepsiCo: Leveraging Augmented Reality in outdoor ad campaigns, turning bus stops and billboards into interactive experiences that engage consumers with dynamic content. These AR activations allow users to scan ads with their smartphones, unlocking exclusive promotions, games, and brand stories.
Nestle: Nestlé has utilized Virtual Reality (VR) to simulate warehouse layouts and optimize supply chain management. Through immersive VR training, the company ensures that its logistics teams are better equipped to handle complex warehouse operations.
L’Oréal: L’Oréal introduced Augmented Reality (AR) in its product try-on applications, allowing consumers to virtually try cosmetics using their smartphones. This allows users to experience different makeup looks and shades in real time without physical samples.
Unilever: Unilever uses Virtual Reality (VR) to train its employees and improve product design. In collaboration with suppliers, Unilever has also deployed VR to simulate new product experiences and gather consumer feedback before launch.
Coca-Cola: Coca-Cola has integrated Augmented Reality (AR) into its marketing campaigns. Through AR-enabled packaging, customers can scan Coke cans to access interactive content, such as games, videos, and promotional offers.
Blue Origin: Leveraging Mixed Reality simulations for rocket assembly and launch rehearsals, helping engineers practice complex procedures in a risk-free virtual environment. This streamlined launch protocols and improved team coordination for high-stakes missions.
Collins Aerospace: Implementing VR-based cabin design tools, enabling airlines to customize aircraft interiors and simulate passenger experiences before production. Airlines could test seating layouts, lighting configurations, and in-flight service flows in a virtual setting.
Northrop Grumman: Utilizing AR for real-time diagnostics and aircraft maintenance, allowing technicians to visualize internal components and receive instant data overlays. This enabled quicker fault detection and repair, minimizing aircraft downtime.
NASA: Adopted VR simulations for astronaut training and mission rehearsals. Virtual environments replicated spacecraft interiors, zero-gravity conditions, and spacewalk scenarios. These immersive experiences improved astronaut preparedness for complex missions.
Lockheed Martin: Incorporated Mixed Reality (MR) headsets, such as Microsoft HoloLens, to assist in building spacecraft components, including NASA’s Orion spacecraft. The headsets provided real-time overlays and instructions to engineers, enhancing precision and collaboration during spacecraft assembly.
Airbus: Developed VR-based training modules for pilots and engineers to simulate aircraft handling, emergency protocols, and maintenance operations. Their “Airbus VR Flight Trainer” allowed trainees to experience real-world scenarios in a virtual environment, improving decision-making skills under pressure.
Boeing: Integrated Augmented Reality (AR) into its assembly processes for wiring installations in aircraft. Using AR glasses, technicians received real-time visual instructions and step-by-step guides. This reduced errors and accelerated production timelines by streamlining complex assembly tasks.
SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill): Implementing Mixed Reality for collaborative design reviews, merging digital blueprints with physical models to streamline the design iteration process. Supports remote collaboration, enabling architects and clients to make real-time adjustments from anywhere in the world.
BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group): Leveraging Virtual Reality to create immersive urban planning models, helping stakeholders experience large-scale projects before construction begins. Includes interactive walkthroughs with customizable elements like landscaping, infrastructure, and public amenities.
Gensler: Utilizing Augmented Reality to overlay design concepts onto physical spaces, allowing clients to visualize real-time architectural changes on-site. Integrates dynamic lighting and material simulations to showcase how spaces evolve throughout the day.
Foster + Partners: Foster + Partners, a globally renowned architecture and design firm, integrated Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) to revolutionize its design process and client presentations. Foster + Partners developed interactive VR models for projects like the Apple Park campus, enabling stakeholders to immerse themselves in the project virtually
Dwyer Architectural: a firm specializing in bespoke architectural designs, incorporated Virtual Reality (VR) into its design communication process to better serve its clients. Using VR tools like SentioVR, Dwyer created fully immersive walkthroughs for residential and commercial projects.
M+H Architects: Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has been a pioneer in integrating Virtual Reality (VR) into its design process. The firm uses VR to test concepts and create immersive environments for clients to explore unbuilt spaces.
Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF): A leading global architecture firm, embraced Varjo’s immersive technology to enhance its design process and client collaboration. They adopted the Varjo Reality Cloud, allowing real-time streaming of VR/XR visualizations to multiple devices, including VR headsets, for seamless remote collaboration.
Thales AR Solutions: Using Augmented Reality for Battlefield Visualization, Helping Commanders Overlay Real-Time Data on Terrain Maps for Strategic Planning. Integrates weather forecasts, troop movements, and satellite data into one immersive view.
Boeing VR Simulation: Providing Virtual Reality Environments for Pilot Training, Allowing for Realistic Combat Flight Scenarios and Emergency Response Drills. Incorporates multi-pilot networked simulations for collaborative combat strategies.
Northrop Grumman: Advancing Equipment Maintenance and Repair with AR-Driven Remote Support for Defence Technicians. Incorporating 3D holographic repair guides that reduce downtime and human error.
BAE Systems: Utilizing MR for Real-Time Collaboration and Mission Planning Across Multiple Defence Units. Enabling remote commanders to visualize live battlefield data and issue dynamic orders instantly.
Raytheon Technologies: Augmenting Situational Awareness for Defence Personnel with AR-Powered Tactical Systems. Offering real-time data overlays for threat detection, navigation, and target acquisition.
Lockheed Martin: Enhancing Soldier Training with VR Simulations for Combat Scenarios and Tactical Decision-Making. Integrating AI-driven enemy behaviour models to create unpredictable, high-intensity simulations.
Niantic: Niantic revolutionizes mobile gaming with AR, blending digital elements into real-world environments. This creates engaging, location-based gameplay. It fosters community interaction and active participation.
Valve Index: Valve’s VR headset offers high-fidelity graphics and precise tracking. Gamers enjoy ultra-immersive worlds. Its ergonomic design enhances player comfort. This advances the future of VR gaming.
Magic Leap: Magic Leap introduces AR gaming with spatial computing. Games unfold in physical spaces, blending virtual characters into real-world settings. This creates unique, interactive experiences. It blurs the line between fantasy and reality.
Sony PlayStation VR: Sony’s VR platform delivers high-resolution gaming with responsive motion tracking. Players experience seamless, immersive gameplay. The system integrates with PlayStation consoles. It expands gaming realism.
Epic Games: Epic Games Unreal Engine integrates VR tools for game development. Creators design lifelike, immersive environments. VR gameplay becomes more dynamic and fluid. It elevates realism and creativity in gaming.
Microsoft: Microsoft’s mixed reality tech transforms gaming by merging physical and digital worlds. Players interact with holograms and virtual landscapes. The MR experience enhances storytelling. It pushes the boundaries of game design.
Oculus: Oculus pioneers immersive VR gaming with cutting-edge headsets. Players enter fully interactive environments and experience 360-degree gameplay. The technology bridges the gap between virtual and real worlds. It redefines gaming experiences.
Boeing AR Navigation: Boeing employs AR to guide technicians during aircraft wiring installations. AR visuals project cable routes onto surfaces. This boosts installation speed and accuracy. It ensures precision and reduces rework.
ABB VR Training: ABB uses VR to train workers in robotics programming and factory planning. Employees interact with virtual robots and assembly lines. This builds practical skills safely. It prepares teams for real-world operations.
Porsche AR Glasses: Porsche equips technicians with AR glasses for real-time vehicle diagnostics. Digital overlays display hidden components and repair guides. This accelerates troubleshooting. It enhances workshop efficiency and service quality.
GE: GE employs MR for remote maintenance support. Engineers wear MR headsets to view real-time data and digital overlays on industrial equipment. This streamlines diagnostics and repairs. It cuts maintenance time and costs.
Caterpillar: Caterpillar integrates AR and VR for equipment maintenance and operator training. Virtual models guide technicians through repair processes. This reduces downtime and errors. It strengthens machinery performance and technician expertise.
Volkswagen: Volkswagen uses AR to train workers on vehicle assembly lines. AR glasses overlay real-time instructions onto physical components. This improves accuracy and assembly speed. It minimizes production errors and enhances productivity.
Siemens: Siemens leverages VR for worker training and industrial machinery maintenance. Employees practice operating complex machines in virtual environments. This reduces on-the-job errors and boosts safety. It optimizes workforce readiness and operational efficiency.
HoloAnatomy by Case Western: HoloAnatomy employs Microsoft’s HoloLens to teach medical students about human anatomy through mixed reality. It presents 3D holograms of organs, muscles, and bones. Students can interact with the models in real-time. This immersive approach improves comprehension and retention.
Touch Surgery: Touch Surgery is a VR mobile platform for surgical training and education. It offers step-by-step virtual simulations of a wide range of procedures. Accessible from smartphones and tablets, it provides flexibility for medical professionals. It supports remote learning and skills assessment.
Medivis: Medivis uses AR to provide real-time, holographic visuals of patient anatomy during surgeries. Surgeons can see layered 3D medical images superimposed onto the patient’s body. This eliminates the need to glance away at 2D screens. It enhances focus, accuracy, and overall surgical efficiency.
Surgical Theater: Surgical Theater combines VR with real-world planning for pre-operative strategies. It lets surgeons visualize and rehearse complex procedures in a 3D virtual environment. Patients also benefit from seeing the surgical plan, boosting confidence. This technology helps reduce surgical complications and enhance patient trust.
Augmedics xVision: Augmedics xVision headset brings augmented reality into the operating room. It overlays 3D spinal anatomy onto a surgeon’s view, aiding precision during complex spine surgeries. This real-time visualization reduces reliance on traditional monitors. As a result, surgeries are faster, safer, and more accurate.
FundamentalVR: FundamentalVR offers haptic-enabled VR platforms that simulate the physical sensations of surgery. It provides an ultra-realistic training environment for medical students and professionals. The platform tracks performance metrics to ensure continuous learning. This boosts confidence and reduces the risk of real-world errors.
ClassVR: ClassVR provides VR headsets and tailored content libraries for schools. Students engage in interactive lessons, from exploring ancient ruins to diving into ocean ecosystems. The platform integrates with lesson plans. This makes VR learning seamless and impactful.
Nearpod VR: Nearpod VR integrates immersive content into everyday lesson plans. Teachers use VR experiences to explain abstract concepts like space exploration or cellular structures. It transforms passive learning into active exploration. This creates memorable learning moments.
Google Expeditions: Google Expeditions allows students to take AR-powered field trips to historical sites and natural wonders. Teachers can guide the experiences using handheld devices. This adds a visual layer to lessons. It sparks curiosity and enhances knowledge retention.
VirBELA: VirBELA offers virtual campuses where students and educators collaborate in immersive environments. It simulates real-world classrooms, conference halls, and group discussions. The platform supports global education initiatives. It breaks geographical barriers and promotes remote learning.
Mercedes-Benz: Leveraging MR for immersive customer experiences, letting users visualize custom car configurations and explore design options in real-time. Customers can interact with virtual models, changing colours, interiors, and features, bridging the gap between imagination and reality.
Toyota: Integrating AR in driver assistance systems, projecting real-time navigation prompts, hazard alerts, and speed data onto windshields for safer driving experiences. The system adapts to road conditions and traffic data, enhancing situational awareness for drivers.
Porsche: Using VR for virtual prototyping, allowing designers to collaborate remotely and test new car models in immersive 3D environments before physical production. This accelerates design iterations, reduces costs, and enables real-time feedback on aerodynamics and aesthetics.
Volvo : utilizes Augmented Reality (AR) in their showrooms to offer virtual test drives and detailed vehicle feature demonstrations. Customers can interact with digital models of cars, experiencing the vehicle in a virtual space.
BMW: has implemented Mixed Reality (MR) technology in its training programs for maintenance and repair. MR headsets provide mechanics with step-by-step holographic guidance, enabling hands-on experience without physical models.
Audi: uses Augmented Reality (AR) to assist in vehicle assembly processes. Technicians wear AR glasses that overlay real-time instructions onto the vehicle, guiding them through each step of the assembly process.
Engage VR: Engage VR transforms classrooms into interactive environments, allowing students to explore history, science, and geography in 3D. Educators can create virtual field trips or immersive storytelling sessions. It encourages active participation and deeper learning. This redefines traditional education methods.
Labster: Labster revolutionizes STEM education by offering virtual reality simulations of science labs. Students can perform experiments in safe, controlled VR environments. It allows for trial-and-error learning without material costs. This boosts curiosity, engagement, and understanding.
zSpace: zSpace combines AR and VR tools for interactive learning experiences. Students can dissect virtual frogs, manipulate physics experiments, and build 3D models. It enhances visualization and critical thinking. This hands-on approach fosters a dynamic and engaging classroom.