Stepping Into the Future: Bentley Labs Brings Infrastructure to Life via XR

• Proeksa Meas
• 13 June 2026
• Construction Focus
• 92 Views

A new immersive tool from Bentley Labs is allowing engineers and stakeholders to step inside 3D infrastructure projects before a single beam is laid. Using the Apple Vision Pro, users can interact with complex models—like a bridge in Amsterdam—from anywhere in the world.The “Labs XR Prototype” overcomes traditional virtual reality barriers by hosting massive Building Information Models (BIM) in the cloud. By integrating Bentley’s iTwin platform with Cesium geospatial technology, the system ensures that design changes are instantly reflected in the headset, eliminating the need for heavy local processing power.

The prototype also utilizes “Gaussian splatting,” a cutting-edge technique that renders high-fidelity details, such as glass reflections and realistic water textures.

“We’re combining the most realistic reality-capture technology out there with one of the most powerful headsets ever made,” said UX designer Liana O’Cleirigh.

Practical applications are already emerging. Beyond stakeholder engagement, the platform is being used to train bridge inspectors and verify critical operator sightlines in virtual environments.

Bentley Labs plans to showcase immersive versions of upcoming “Year in Infrastructure” award submissions this October, with future updates slated to include AI-guided tours and broader headset support.

• Bentley
• iLab
• Bentley Systems
• Lab XR