The nextReality.Contest was founded in 2017 by nextReality.Hamburg e.V. and has since become one of the leading XR awards in the German-speaking region. For ten years, the competition has recognized outstanding Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality projects distinguished by innovation, creative excellence, and technological quality.
In 2026, XRC celebrates its 10th edition.
Over the past decade, more than 800 projects have been submitted and over 70 have been awarded — a strong testament to the innovative power of the XR industry.
This year once again, companies, studios, start-ups, and individuals have the opportunity to bring their ideas and products to the main stage. An independent, interdisciplinary jury evaluates all submissions and selects the winners in the following categories:
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Interactive Entertainment – Captivating XR experiences with innovative gameplay
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Interactive Business – XR solutions enabling new business models and creating economic value
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Interactive Education – Immersive applications with a pedagogical focus
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Young Talent – Emerging projects by students and young creators
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Best Installation – XR projects combined with physical installations to create unique experiences
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Zeitgeist – Applications addressing socially relevant topics
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International Production – Outstanding XR projects from around the world
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Community Award – Decided by the public
Winners receive not only what may be the most beautiful trophy in the XR world, but in most categories also prize money in recognition of their achievements.
(The Community Award and Best Installation are not endowed with prize money.)
The award ceremony will take place on November 18, 2026, as part of the nextReality.festival in Hamburg’s Speicherstadt. Nominated projects will be presented in a curated exhibition on November 18 and 19, 2026.
In addition to the award ceremony, the festival features talks, panels, and numerous networking opportunities with leading voices from the XR industry.
