AR/VR Device Penetration by Country: Global Stats Map

The world of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is growing faster than ever. Every year, more people around the globe are using these immersive technologies for gaming, education, shopping, training, and entertainment. But while interest is growing worldwide, the level of AR/VR adoption isn’t the same in every country. Some nations are charging ahead, while others are just starting to explore these new frontiers.

1. United States leads AR/VR penetration with 18% of households owning at least one device

The U.S. is currently leading the global race in AR/VR device adoption, with around 18% of households owning a headset or AR-compatible gear. This means nearly 1 in 5 homes in America has already embraced immersive tech. That’s a big number—and it opens up even bigger opportunities.

So what’s driving this high adoption rate? Several things: a strong gaming culture, a tech-forward economy, and major players like Meta, Apple, and Microsoft making big bets on AR/VR.

American consumers are also very responsive to new gadgets and entertainment tech, which makes the U.S. a perfect launchpad for AR/VR products and platforms.

If you’re a startup or company trying to build or market AR/VR experiences, the U.S. should be your top priority. But it’s not enough to just build a cool product.

You need to understand how people are using these devices—most commonly for gaming, fitness, and media consumption—and tailor your offering to fit their lifestyle.

Here’s what you can do:

• Focus on partnerships with U.S.-based platforms like Oculus Store, SteamVR, and Apple Vision Pro when they go live.
• Localize your content for American users—everything from language to cultural references matters.
• Run beta tests in American cities where tech adoption is high—places like San Francisco, Austin, and New York.

Remember, while the market is competitive, it’s also incredibly rewarding. The U.S. audience is ready, willing, and able to spend money on immersive experiences. If you have something valuable to offer, there’s never been a better time to go all-in.

2. South Korea follows with 15% AR/VR device adoption rate

South Korea might be small in size, but it’s a giant when it comes to technology. With a 15% household penetration rate for AR/VR devices, South Korea is punching well above its weight.

This is a country that’s always ahead of the curve, whether it’s in internet speeds, gaming culture, or mobile innovation.

The Korean audience is unique in that they adopt new tech very quickly—especially if it enhances social or gaming experiences. VR arcades are popular here, and local companies are investing in education and real estate applications for AR.

With strong government support for tech innovation, there’s a real infrastructure in place to support growth.

So how can you make a move in South Korea?

• Make sure your platform or experience supports the Korean language and culture. This isn’t a market where English-first apps thrive unless heavily localized.
• Tap into the esports and gaming ecosystem. South Korean gamers are highly engaged and open to VR gameplay.
• Consider B2B opportunities—Korean schools and universities are testing AR in classrooms, and there’s real interest in virtual training solutions.

If you’re serious about going global, South Korea is a market you can’t afford to overlook. The audience is digital-first, experimental, and enthusiastic about new ways to connect and play.

3. China has an estimated 14% penetration rate, driven by local manufacturing and gaming

China has rapidly become one of the key markets for AR/VR, with an estimated 14% household penetration rate. This is impressive, especially when you consider the country’s size.

What’s fueling this growth? A powerful mix of local hardware production, strong government backing, and a booming mobile gaming industry.

Chinese consumers are very open to immersive content, especially if it’s social, gamified, or tied to e-commerce. Big players like Xiaomi, Huawei, and ByteDance (owner of TikTok) are already launching their own AR/VR products.

There’s also strong state interest in developing metaverse infrastructure and smart cities.

Want to break into China’s AR/VR market? Here’s your action plan:

• Partner with a local distributor or tech firm. You’ll need a local presence to navigate regulations and consumer behavior.
• Tailor your content for platforms like WeChat, Douyin (China’s TikTok), and local VR ecosystems.
• Keep an eye on emerging trends in virtual education and commerce. China is moving fast in both areas.

The Chinese AR/VR market is big, but not always easy to enter. Still, the growth potential is enormous, and if you’re willing to invest in localization and partnerships, it could pay off in a big way.

4. Japan reports around 10% AR/VR usage among households

Japan’s AR/VR usage sits at around 10%—a healthy number for a country known for leading-edge tech and gaming innovation. Japanese consumers are particularly interested in VR for anime, gaming, and virtual concerts. AR is also making its way into navigation apps and retail experiences.

This market is unique because it blends a strong love for fantasy and immersion with a cautious but curious tech culture. People want experiences that feel personal and intuitive, especially if they involve storytelling.

To make a mark in Japan:

• Build immersive content that taps into anime, manga, or cultural themes. This is a surefire way to win local users.
• Work with Japanese creators and influencers to build trust and visibility.
• Offer high-quality, bug-free experiences. Japanese consumers expect polish and attention to detail.

Japan’s AR/VR future looks promising, especially as hardware becomes lighter and more affordable. With an audience that appreciates creativity and innovation, it’s a great place to experiment with storytelling-based immersive tech.

5. Germany shows 9% device penetration, mainly among tech-savvy demographics

Germany’s AR/VR device adoption sits at about 9%. While that’s slightly below some of the other top countries, don’t let that fool you—Germany has a strong, growing AR/VR user base, particularly among young professionals and tech enthusiasts.

What’s interesting about Germany is that AR/VR adoption is not just about entertainment. There’s a lot of interest in industrial and enterprise applications, from automotive design to virtual training in manufacturing.

Here’s how to tap into the German market:

• Explore B2B opportunities. Many German firms are investing in VR-based employee training and simulation.
• If you’re in gaming, aim for cross-platform VR titles that appeal to PC gamers. Germany has a large base of hardcore players.
• Focus on data privacy and ethical design. German users and regulators care deeply about digital safety.

Germany might not have the flashiest adoption rate, but it has serious long-term potential. The audience is informed, well-funded, and open to new tech—especially if it solves real-world problems.

6. United Kingdom has 8.5% AR/VR adoption in consumer markets

The United Kingdom comes in with an AR/VR device penetration rate of around 8.5%. That means nearly 1 in 12 households has already embraced immersive technology, with more on the way. This market is growing steadily, thanks to a mix of gaming, creative industries, and retail innovation.

British consumers are very responsive to AR/VR when it adds real value—whether that’s through immersive shopping, fitness experiences, or engaging storytelling. Big UK retailers are experimenting with virtual stores, while museums and art institutions are testing AR to bring culture to life.

If you’re targeting the UK, here’s how to get ahead:

• Tailor your experience for the UK lifestyle. Fitness apps, home entertainment, and e-learning platforms do particularly well.
• Collaborate with cultural institutions or media outlets. There’s a strong appetite for interactive storytelling and creative content.
• Don’t ignore mobile-based AR. British users are often looking for experiences that work without buying high-end headsets.

Also, make sure your marketing is localized—not just in language, but in humor and tone. UK users are sharp, informed, and appreciate a clever approach. If your product can make life more fun, efficient, or connected, the British market is ready for it.

7. France has a penetration rate of approximately 8%

France is showing strong interest in immersive technologies, with an 8% household AR/VR device penetration rate. That may not sound like a huge number, but it represents millions of users—and growing. What makes France unique is how much of the adoption is driven by art, design, and digital storytelling.

French culture values creativity and innovation. From virtual fashion shows to AR museum tours, the country is using immersive tech to elevate culture and lifestyle. The government is also backing several AR/VR-related startups and educational programs, making the market even more fertile.

Here’s how to tap into France’s AR/VR momentum:

• Emphasize style, design, and storytelling in your product. A visually rich experience will resonate.
• Work with French creative agencies or universities to co-develop content that speaks to local tastes.
• Consider launching at French expos or tech events, like VivaTech in Paris, to gain visibility.

Also, language localization is key. French consumers tend to prefer content in their own language. Take the time to properly translate your interface, voiceover, and marketing material—it goes a long way.

8. Canada reports 7.5% household adoption of AR/VR hardware

Canada sits at 7.5% AR/VR penetration, and the trend is rising. The Canadian market is particularly interesting because of its geographic spread—urban centers like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are leading adoption, while rural areas are slowly catching up through education and virtual tourism.

Canadians are using AR/VR mostly for gaming, fitness, and social experiences. But the country is also investing in immersive healthcare, virtual therapy, and training for remote communities. These emerging sectors are worth watching closely.

If you’re aiming to grow your AR/VR presence in Canada:

• Focus your marketing and partnerships in major urban centers, where tech adoption is highest.
• Offer solutions that work well for colder climates and indoor lifestyles—Canadians spend a lot of time inside during winter.
• Tap into educational or healthcare applications that address the country’s remote geography.

Canada also has a supportive startup ecosystem and a government that’s funding digital innovation. With a thoughtful approach and a bit of localization, it’s a great place to launch or expand your AR/VR presence.

9. Australia maintains 7% penetration, with rising interest in VR gaming

Australia’s AR/VR device usage stands at around 7%, and most of that growth is being driven by VR gaming and fitness. Aussies are known for their adventurous spirit, and immersive experiences—especially those that feel social or competitive—fit well with local tastes.

What’s working well in Australia? Multiplayer VR games, immersive fitness platforms, and virtual sports are leading the charge. People are looking for ways to stay active, entertained, and connected, especially in more remote or regional areas.

Here’s how to win in the Australian market:

• Emphasize social and fitness features. Australians are drawn to experiences they can share with friends or use to stay in shape.
• Make sure your tech is reliable across a wide range of devices. Internet infrastructure can vary outside the cities.
• Look for collaborations with local creators, athletes, or streamers to drive community engagement.

Australia also has a growing interest in immersive education and virtual training for industries like mining, healthcare, and aviation. These sectors offer long-term growth potential for B2B developers and content creators.

10. India has around 5% penetration, with growth driven by mobile-based VR

India’s AR/VR penetration currently sits at around 5%, which might sound low at first—but in a country of over 1.4 billion people, that’s a huge user base. What’s exciting about India is the pace of growth. This market is expanding fast, especially through mobile-based VR and low-cost AR devices.

Indian users are exploring AR for shopping, education, and entertainment. And local startups are experimenting with regional-language content and affordable hardware solutions. With rising smartphone penetration and strong youth engagement, this market is on the verge of something big.

To succeed in India’s AR/VR space:

• Focus on mobile-first design. Experiences that work on affordable smartphones or VR viewers are much more likely to scale.
• Offer multilingual content. English works for urban centers, but regional languages unlock massive new audiences.
• Price your product strategically. Affordability matters more than high-end specs in most of the Indian market.

India is also investing in digital infrastructure through national programs like “Digital India.” With the right mix of access, content, and pricing, AR/VR could become a mainstream tool across education, retail, and entertainment in the next few years.

11. Brazil shows 4.5% AR/VR usage, largely among urban youth

Brazil’s AR/VR device penetration is around 4.5%, with most users concentrated in big cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília. This number is steadily climbing, especially among the country’s youth, who are active in mobile gaming, social platforms, and digital creativity.

What’s really driving AR/VR interest in Brazil is the culture. Brazilians are highly social, expressive, and enthusiastic about new experiences. Whether it’s a virtual dance party or an immersive soccer game, the right kind of content can really catch fire here.

To succeed in Brazil:

• Target urban Gen Z and millennials first. They’re the early adopters and influencers.
• Build fun, shareable AR features—filters, short-form experiences, and gamified tools go a long way.
• Consider collaborations with Brazilian creators, artists, or musicians. Local pride is a big deal, and content that reflects Brazilian culture tends to resonate deeply.

Also, keep your app lightweight. Internet access in some regions can be inconsistent, and people often rely on mobile data. Offer offline capabilities where possible, and keep download sizes low.

Brazil is a market where word-of-mouth and social virality can make or break you. If your AR/VR product connects with users emotionally and culturally, growth can be fast and organic.

12. Russia has an estimated 4% adoption rate

Russia’s AR/VR device adoption stands at about 4%, and it’s slowly rising. While consumer usage is still growing, there’s strong interest from universities, gaming communities, and defense or industrial sectors. Much of the innovation here is focused on utility and simulation, rather than just entertainment.

That being said, there’s still a solid consumer market for VR games, virtual tours, and training apps—especially in cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. Russian consumers tend to value practicality and durability, so your product needs to do more than just entertain.

To gain traction in Russia:

• Prioritize function over flash. Build tools and experiences that solve real problems or teach real skills.
• Work with local distributors or partners who understand the regulatory environment and business culture.
• Translate and localize everything. Russian users expect interfaces and instructions in their native language.

Also, cybersecurity is a major concern in Russia, both at the personal and organizational level. If your product handles data, be transparent and clear about privacy protections.

This market may not be growing as fast as others, but it has depth. Russia offers opportunities in education, training, defense, and enterprise sectors, especially for products that can show measurable value.

13. Italy reports around 3.8% penetration

Italy’s AR/VR device penetration rate is approximately 3.8%. While still in early growth, there’s a strong cultural foundation for immersive experiences, particularly in art, design, and tourism. Italians value storytelling, aesthetics, and craftsmanship—and that’s where AR/VR can shine.

Rome, Milan, and Florence are becoming hubs for creative technology. Virtual museum tours, AR fashion shows, and immersive design tools are gaining attention. But the consumer side is still warming up to everyday use of AR/VR, especially outside the big cities.

If you’re eyeing the Italian market:

• Highlight artistic and experiential value. Show how your product adds beauty, style, or cultural insight.
• Partner with tourism or fashion industries. These sectors are open to using AR/VR for customer engagement.
• Be sensitive to device cost and practicality. Italians love design, but also look for functionality and ease of use.

Also, customer service and reputation matter a lot. Word spreads fast in tight-knit communities, so make sure your product delivers on what it promises.

Italy’s slow but steady adoption curve gives you time to build brand presence. If you lead with culture and quality, your product could become a favorite in this expressive, design-forward market.

14. Spain shows 3.5% AR/VR device ownership

Spain currently has about 3.5% of households using AR/VR devices. While this puts it on the lower end of European markets, adoption is growing—especially in education, tourism, and mobile AR content. Spaniards are highly active on social platforms and love experiences that are immersive, interactive, and shareable.

Cities like Madrid and Barcelona are embracing tech innovation, with local startups building AR apps for everything from museum tours to real estate. But the consumer market still needs more education about the practical benefits of AR/VR.

To succeed in Spain:

• Focus on experiences that blend culture, learning, and fun. Spain has a rich history that works well in immersive formats.
• Mobile-first AR is the fastest way in. People are more likely to try it on their phones than invest in a headset at this stage.
• Collaborate with local institutions, especially in education and culture, to introduce new tech in trusted environments.

Spanish consumers respond well to passion, community, and creativity. If you can connect your product to those values, you’ll find an audience.

Also, customer engagement and support go a long way. Friendly service and a conversational tone in marketing help build loyalty and trust in the Spanish market.

15. Mexico reports approximately 3% household penetration

Mexico’s AR/VR market is still in its early stages, with about 3% of households owning a device. But what’s exciting here is the enthusiasm. Young users, particularly in Mexico City and Guadalajara, are curious, experimental, and eager to try new tech—especially if it’s social, creative, or helps them learn new things.

Mobile AR is growing quickly, with many users engaging through apps on mid-range Android devices. VR cafes and arcades are also starting to appear, offering more people a chance to experience immersive tech firsthand.

If you’re building for Mexico:

• Focus on affordability and mobile access. Price matters a lot here, so lightweight AR experiences are your best bet.
• Offer content in Spanish—and make it local. Mexican culture is rich, vibrant, and proud. Experiences that reflect that will connect better.
• Think youth-first. Teens and young adults are your best early adopters, especially if the content is fun and social.

Education is another powerful entry point. Teachers and parents are exploring AR/VR for language learning, science, and geography. With the right partnerships, you can create content that serves both fun and function.

Mexico’s AR/VR market may be small now, but the potential is enormous. By starting early and focusing on the right audience, you can grow with it.

16. Indonesia sees about 2.8% AR/VR device usage

Indonesia may only have around 2.8% AR/VR device penetration, but the momentum is real. With over 270 million people and one of the fastest-growing mobile-first internet populations in the world, this is a country to watch closely.

Most of the AR/VR usage right now comes from smartphones, especially among younger users who spend a lot of time on social apps and mobile games.

The market here is defined by two things: affordability and accessibility. If you can deliver engaging, lightweight AR experiences that work on lower- to mid-tier smartphones, you’ve got a winning formula.

Urban centers like Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bandung are seeing more interest in immersive tech, particularly among digital natives and Gen Z users.

Here’s how to get started in Indonesia:

• Build mobile-first AR experiences that are data-light and don’t require expensive devices.
• Focus on entertainment and education. Short, interactive AR lessons or gamified stories are highly shareable here.
• Offer multilingual options, including Bahasa Indonesia, to ensure your content feels local and welcoming.

The social aspect also matters. Indonesians are heavy users of Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp. If your AR product includes features people can share, remix, or use in their stories, you’ll have a much easier time spreading organically.

This market may still be early in adoption, but it’s growing fast. If you plan ahead and focus on mobile, Indonesia could be a powerful growth channel in Southeast Asia.

17. Turkey reports 2.5% adoption rate

Turkey has a 2.5% AR/VR penetration rate, with most usage centered in cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. What’s interesting about Turkey is its position as a tech bridge between Europe and the Middle East. It has a vibrant startup ecosystem and a young, digitally active population.

While adoption is still low compared to Western Europe, the appetite is strong. Turkish users are especially interested in gaming, virtual shopping, and educational content. Many schools and universities are exploring VR tools for remote learning and interactive training.

If you’re looking to build or market in Turkey:

• Start with interactive educational or career-based tools. There’s real hunger for upskilling and digital learning.
• Offer content that works in Turkish. English is popular among the youth, but local language support builds wider trust.
• Price your products or services competitively. Inflation and economic uncertainty affect consumer spending here, so affordability matters.

One more thing—community is important. Turkish users trust influencers and personal recommendations more than generic ads. Work with local voices, whether they’re educators, streamers, or creators, to build momentum.

Turkey may not be at the top of global rankings yet, but it’s packed with potential. With the right partnerships and pricing, you can tap into a tech-savvy audience eager to explore new digital experiences.

18. South Africa has a penetration rate of 2.2%

At 2.2% device penetration, South Africa is still in the early phase of AR/VR growth—but it’s quickly becoming a key tech hub on the African continent. The growing availability of mobile devices, improving internet infrastructure, and strong demand for education and training tools are pushing the needle forward.

AR and VR are being tested in creative ways here—from helping medical students train in virtual environments to supporting remote education in rural areas. Gaming and entertainment are also on the rise, especially in urban regions like Johannesburg and Cape Town.

To engage South African users:

• Focus on problem-solving applications—education, healthcare, and virtual training are top needs.
• Offer experiences that can run on mid-range mobile devices with low data consumption.
• Include cultural relevance in your storytelling. Content that reflects African stories or local languages will stand out.

Affordability and access are key themes in South Africa’s tech space. If you can lower barriers to entry, provide real value, and involve the community, you’ll be well-positioned to grow.

South Africa may be early in the game, but it’s investing in tech innovation and building the foundation for much bigger adoption in the near future.

19. Saudi Arabia shows 2% household AR/VR ownership

Saudi Arabia has a 2% AR/VR household penetration rate, and it’s rising, especially as the country invests in digital transformation and smart cities. With the government’s Vision 2030 initiative, there’s strong support for tech innovation, entertainment, and education—all areas where AR/VR can thrive.

AR is already being used in retail and tourism, including virtual tours of historic sites and futuristic mall experiences. The youth population is huge and highly active on mobile, which creates a fertile audience for immersive apps and content.

Here’s how to tap into Saudi Arabia’s growing market:

• Develop Arabic-language content with high production quality. Visual appeal and cultural respect matter a lot here.
• Think beyond gaming—virtual experiences for shopping, learning, and events are gaining interest.
• Partner with local institutions or digital agencies to navigate cultural norms and compliance.

What’s unique about Saudi Arabia is the top-down approach to innovation. If you align your product with national goals like digital education, smart city development, or tourism, you’ll have more opportunities to get support or pilot programs.

This market is moving fast. With the right strategy and local alignment, you can be part of the digital future being built in the region.

20. United Arab Emirates has 1.8% device penetration

The UAE’s AR/VR penetration stands at 1.8%, but that figure is a bit misleading—the country punches far above its weight when it comes to tech innovation and immersive experience development.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are investing heavily in AR/VR for business, tourism, education, and even government services.

From virtual reality malls to AR-enhanced city tours, the country is positioning itself as a leader in futuristic living. While consumer ownership is still growing, enterprise and public-sector adoption are already making waves.

To enter the UAE market:

• Position your product as premium and polished. Quality, branding, and innovation are highly valued.
• Focus on B2B and government partnerships. Many AR/VR deals happen at the enterprise or national level.
• Build for multilingual use. English and Arabic are both used widely, so supporting both is ideal.

Events like GITEX and Dubai Expo have also fueled interest in immersive tech. If you’re building something exciting, showcasing it in the UAE could open doors far beyond its borders.

The UAE may be small in population, but it has big ambitions. It’s a strategic market for positioning your product on the global stage.

21. Argentina has a reported 1.7% AR/VR usage

Argentina’s AR/VR device penetration sits at around 1.7%, and while still in early stages, the market shows a lot of promise—especially among students, gamers, and digital artists.

Buenos Aires is the epicenter of innovation here, with a growing number of tech startups experimenting with immersive media.

One thing to understand about Argentina is its strong creative culture. Music, art, film, and literature are deeply valued, and any tech that helps tell stories in a fresh, immersive way has a good chance of making an impact.

Here’s how to get started in Argentina:

• Develop creative AR/VR content that supports storytelling, music, or art. Think virtual galleries, concerts, or even educational tools.
• Offer a freemium pricing model if possible. Many users are price-sensitive due to economic instability, so free trials or ad-supported versions help lower the entry barrier.
• Focus on youth and university students. This audience is curious, tech-savvy, and looking for new ways to learn and express themselves.

Also, localization matters. Spanish should be your default, but keep it culturally relevant—Argentinian slang and references will help users connect with your experience.

Despite the economic challenges, the spirit of innovation and creativity is strong. If you provide accessible, expressive tools, you’ll find a niche that’s eager to engage.

22. Nigeria stands at approximately 1.5% penetration

Nigeria may only have about 1.5% AR/VR device penetration right now, but that’s no reason to overlook it. This is Africa’s largest economy and most populous country, and it’s filled with ambitious, mobile-first consumers who are increasingly drawn to immersive digital experiences.

What’s working in Nigeria? Mobile AR—especially on Android—and creative applications that allow self-expression, music, and social interaction. Lagos, in particular, is becoming a hotspot for tech entrepreneurship and digital content creation.

To break into this fast-moving market:

• Keep everything mobile-first and data-light. Nigerian users often deal with bandwidth issues and data costs.
• Create tools or content that empower creativity—AR music videos, social filters, or virtual storytelling experiences.
• Make your product work well on affordable Android devices, since that’s what the majority of users rely on.

Nigerian users love to share, remix, and build community through tech. If you can design your product to feel empowering, social, and expressive, it will spread organically.

While the market is young, its long-term potential is massive. Build with constraints in mind, and you’ll be rewarded with deep engagement.

23. Egypt sees around 1.4% device adoption

Egypt has an AR/VR adoption rate of about 1.4%, and while that’s modest, it’s gaining momentum—especially in education and cultural tourism. Cairo and Alexandria are leading the charge, with schools and universities experimenting with AR for science, history, and language learning.

Egypt has a young population, and many are curious about immersive tech. Combine that with a deep cultural heritage, and you’ve got fertile ground for AR experiences that bring history and storytelling to life.

To succeed in Egypt’s emerging AR/VR space:

• Create educational or culturally themed content that feels local. Ancient Egyptian history in AR? That’s a slam dunk.
• Keep your product simple and light on resources. Accessibility matters, especially for students and teachers.
• Offer clear educational value. Parents and educators are more likely to support tech that teaches, not just entertains.

Also, consider building offline capabilities. Many schools may have limited internet access, but are open to digital learning tools.

Egypt is a place where tradition meets curiosity. If you can deliver immersive content that respects both, you’ll have a meaningful opportunity to grow.

24. Philippines shows 1.3% AR/VR usage

With 1.3% of households using AR/VR, the Philippines is early in its adoption journey—but don’t let that fool you. The country is full of highly engaged mobile users who love social media, mobile gaming, and expressive content.

Filipinos are already using mobile AR through apps like Instagram, TikTok, and Snap, often with remarkable creativity. The challenge is getting more people into standalone or headset-based experiences—but even that is changing as costs drop and curiosity grows.

To thrive in the Philippines:

• Lean into social AR experiences—filters, effects, avatars, and user-generated content.
• Make your app run well on older or budget phones. Optimizing for mid-range Android is crucial.
• Prioritize Filipino culture, language, and humor. Localization builds trust fast in this socially driven market.

The Philippines also has a strong diaspora, which means cross-border engagement is a possibility. Content that lets people connect with friends and family in new ways—especially during holidays or events—can spread fast.

This is a mobile-first, fun-loving market. If your AR/VR product makes people smile, laugh, or feel seen, it will resonate deeply.

25. Vietnam has a 1.2% penetration rate

Vietnam is at about 1.2% AR/VR device penetration, and it’s on the rise. The country’s young population, growing middle class, and strong interest in gaming and e-learning make it a fertile ground for immersive technologies—especially mobile-based AR.

In cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, there’s increasing interest in tech innovation and digital creativity. Schools and training centers are also testing VR for interactive lessons and skill development.

Here’s how to approach the Vietnamese market:

• Build educational or vocational tools that support skills training. Career development is a big focus for young professionals.
• Optimize everything for mobile use. Affordability and battery efficiency are key.
• Translate your product into Vietnamese, and make sure your UX feels simple and intuitive.

Vietnamese consumers are value-driven. They want experiences that are worth their time and attention—not just flashy effects. If your AR/VR product provides utility, inspiration, or community, it has a real shot at long-term adoption.

With its growing digital economy and tech-forward youth, Vietnam could quickly rise in the AR/VR landscape. Start small, build local relevance, and you’ll find an eager audience.

26. Thailand reports 1.1% AR/VR device usage

Thailand’s AR/VR adoption rate stands at approximately 1.1%. While still relatively early in the curve, the country has the right ingredients for growth—high smartphone usage, a young population, and a vibrant creative culture.

Thai users are especially active on social platforms and mobile games, where AR features are already being used widely.

Bangkok is becoming a regional hub for digital content, and local developers are experimenting with immersive tourism, virtual art, and interactive education. The government has also shown interest in promoting tech startups, particularly in the education and tourism sectors.

To grow in Thailand:

• Lean into visual creativity. Build immersive, beautiful experiences that appeal to design-conscious users.
• Focus on tourism and language education. Virtual temple tours or AR-based Thai lessons could see strong uptake.
• Make sure your experience is fully localized in Thai and runs smoothly on budget smartphones.

If your AR/VR experience can entertain, educate, or enhance daily life in a simple way, it has potential here. Thais are open to new tech—especially if it’s colorful, fun, and shareable.

Thailand’s digital landscape is evolving quickly, and AR/VR will follow. Position your product to ride the wave of mobile growth, and you’ll be ahead of the curve.

27. Pakistan has approximately 1% adoption

With just around 1% of households using AR/VR, Pakistan is at the early stages of immersive tech adoption. But don’t underestimate this market—it’s young, mobile-first, and quickly evolving thanks to improvements in digital infrastructure and affordable smartphones.

Urban areas like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad are seeing the most AR/VR experimentation, especially in e-learning, online gaming, and mobile marketing. Universities and ed-tech platforms are also starting to explore virtual labs and immersive classrooms.

To make an impact in Pakistan:

• Focus on education-first applications. Digital learning tools that support science, languages, or vocational skills can make a huge difference.
• Keep your product light and accessible. Think mobile-first, offline-friendly, and minimal in data use.
• Use Urdu and English for localization, especially if you’re targeting both students and professionals.

Affordability and value are everything here. If you can create a meaningful, practical experience that works on common devices, adoption can happen faster than you think.

Pakistan’s digital economy is still growing—but it’s packed with potential. Now is the time to get in early, build local trust, and scale as infrastructure improves.

28. Bangladesh stands at 0.8% AR/VR penetration

Bangladesh currently has a 0.8% penetration rate for AR/VR devices, putting it near the bottom of the list—but don’t let that fool you. This market has enormous digital momentum.

With a population of over 170 million and strong government support for ICT development, Bangladesh is poised for rapid growth.

Dhaka is the center of innovation, with local startups and tech hubs exploring AR for marketing, virtual training, and mobile learning. Education is a key focus, especially with a young population looking for opportunities to upskill.

Here’s how to approach Bangladesh’s market:

• Build educational tools that can be used in classrooms or at home, even with limited internet.
• Use Bengali for all content. Localization is essential for reaching the widest audience.
• Design experiences that are practical, not just entertaining. Parents, teachers, and students are looking for value and utility.

Bandwidth can be an issue, so offline options or data-light versions of your app can be the difference between adoption and abandonment.

This is a market where social impact matters. If you can align your product with real-world educational or economic improvement, you’ll gain users and allies quickly.

29. Kenya shows 0.7% usage among urban populations

Kenya has about 0.7% AR/VR device usage, and most of that is happening in urban areas like Nairobi and Mombasa. While the overall rate is low, Kenya is actually a digital leader in East Africa, with strong mobile money systems, tech incubators, and a growing creative economy.

Local content creators are starting to experiment with immersive storytelling, education, and even virtual reality journalism. NGOs and government programs are also looking into AR/VR for vocational training and community education.

To enter the Kenyan market:

• Focus on social impact. Products that solve local challenges—like education, health, or job training—are more likely to be embraced.
• Partner with local organizations, universities, or hubs like iHub in Nairobi to co-develop content.
• Make your experience mobile-friendly and offline-capable. Infrastructure varies widely across the country.

English and Swahili support will give you the best reach. And if your app can run well on entry-level Android phones, you’ll expand your user base significantly.

Kenya’s AR/VR journey is just beginning, but the ecosystem is full of creative, mission-driven innovators. Tap into that energy and you’ll find a market that values purpose just as much as performance.

30. Colombia reports a 0.6% household penetration rate

Colombia rounds out the list with a 0.6% AR/VR device penetration rate. That may be the lowest in this group, but like others on the rise, Colombia has the key elements of a future-ready digital market: a young population, strong mobile usage, and growing investment in education and tech infrastructure.

Bogotá and Medellín are tech-forward cities, with local startups creating AR experiences for tourism, virtual events, and education. Colombian users love music, storytelling, and interactive content, making this a great place for culturally rich, mobile-based AR experiences.

Here’s how to break into Colombia’s market:

• Lean into storytelling. Build experiences that connect emotionally, whether through culture, music, or community.
• Work with Colombian educators and artists to build trust and local relevance.
• Keep your app light, simple, and mobile-optimized—especially for Android devices.

Spanish is essential, but also keep an ear out for regional differences in tone and slang. Friendly, conversational messaging works well in marketing here.

Colombia’s AR/VR adoption is just beginning, but the cultural enthusiasm for creativity and innovation is already there. Enter with intention, listen to the market, and build something people love to share—and you’ll have a strong foothold.

wrapping it up

The global landscape for AR/VR is full of contrasts. Some countries are surging ahead, others are just beginning—but across the board, the opportunity is massive.

Whether you’re building a game, a virtual classroom, or an immersive shopping app, the key to success is understanding your audience and adapting your product to fit their needs, language, lifestyle, and tech environment.