One in ten organisations are already investing in holograms, avatars, or 3D AV technology, according to new research from Kinly’s Trusted Connections 2025 study. But this race toward immersive innovation reveals an important insight: while many businesses are eager to embrace the future, many can capture greater value by addressing ageing infrastructure, outdated systems, and fragmented supply chains that currently limit the impact of these bold ambitions.
In fact, the numbers show just how widespread this opportunity has become. Only 36% of organisations are replacing legacy tech, despite the majority (63%) admitting that their current AV systems are harming productivity. Meanwhile, half of organisations (50%) are adopting personal avatars for remote calls, and more than half (52%) are trialling VR headsets as part of their AV setup, demonstrating a strong appetite for immersive experiences, that could deliver even greater returns with a stronger technology backbone.
However, the infrastructure challenges are not improving. Outdated network infrastructure now affects 32% of businesses, up from 24% in 2024. Similarly, poor system interoperability impacts 34% of organisations, marking a 9% year-on-year increase. Furthermore, a quarter (27%) of enterprises cite disjointed supply chains as a growing barrier that, once addressed, could release significant value from their forward-looking investments.
The solution is straightforward. By addressing core infrastructure needs first, organisations can maximise the impact of their investments in technologies like holograms and avatars. With robust systems in place, even the most advanced tools can deliver their full promise and drive meaningful productivity gains.
Encouragingly, signs of a shift in strategy are already emerging. The research shows that 61% of respondents see AI as the most important AV technology this year, and 71% are actively deploying it to improve workflows, a clear signal that many leaders understand the need for scalable, intelligent systems that bridge the gap between ambition and execution.
This foundations-first thinking extends to crisis preparedness too. According to the study, 68% of organisations have developed dedicated AV continuity plans for future pandemics, indicating they’ve learned that resilient infrastructure is essential when normal operations are disrupted.
Simon Watson, Global Head of Innovation at Kinly, commented: “It’s incredibly exciting to see businesses embracing immersive tools like avatars and holograms, but without solid foundations, these technologies just won’t deliver the productivity gains companies are expecting. You need stable infrastructure, reliable connectivity, and systems that talk to each other in order to maximise the full potential of every technology investment. Our research shows that the most successful organisations get this balance right. They’re ambitious about new technology but smart about building the basics first.”
To find out more about the new Trusted Connections 2025 research and download your own copy, visit the Kinly website here.
