On July 28, the US House of Representatives voted to advance the bipartisan, Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act of 2022, which aims to bolster the domestic semiconductor industry and channel increased resources to critical emerging technologies. The Act designates “immersive technology” as a key technology focus area, making it eligible to receive part of a $280B research and development fund. The bipartisan bill is set to be signed into law by President Biden shortly.

“The XR Association worked closely with members of the Congressional Reality Caucus and other lawmakers to ensure extended reality (XR) technology was properly recognized as a significant technology of the future, and that it will be supported through important research and development opportunities,” said Joan O’Hara, VP of public policy for the XRA. “XR is a critical part of the emerging technology ecosystem and has shown immense potential in addressing societal, national, and geostrategic challenges.”

In addition to advocating for immersive technology to be incorporated into the CHIPS and Science Act, XRA launched an action center to drive supporters to email their representatives about this important piece of legislation.

“XR and immersive technologies have shown incredible promise in addressing various sectors of the economy including healthcare, education and the workforce,” concluded Liz Hyman, CEO of XRA. “Our member organizations build and rely on chips to create new wearables, connect devices, and allow for 5G transformation. As the chip shortage continues, this law will support developers’ ongoing projects and advance the industry.”