Forensic AR/VR: Investigating crimes in 3D

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• January 30, 2023

Augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) is expanding beyond the gaming industry, as crime investigators use headsets and smartphones to re-create real crime scenes.

Forensic AR/VR context

Virtual reality (VR) is a simulated experience that utilizes tracking and 3D near-eye displays to deliver the user an immersive experience in a virtual world. On the other hand, augmented reality (AR) uses devices and apps to overlay digital data and images over a real-world environment. For instance, the 2016 smartphone game, Pokémon Go, used the camera function to “layer” cute creatures on real-life garden benches, parks, and subways. Meanwhile, in the late 2010s, a variety of popular social apps allowed individuals to convert video selfies of their faces into animals, celebrities, and even older versions of themselves. 

The forensics industry is exploring AR/VR tech for mapping out crime scenes and re-creating different scenarios, including wound analysis, blood droplets, bullet trajectory, and more. This application allows investigators to regenerate the scene in 3D settings and upload information online. The ability to upload 3D crime scenes online creates a collaborative environment for global investigators to assist one another, even if they are not at the crime scene.

Disruptive impact

While the technology is not as refined as it needs to be (2022), there are already some potential use cases. Aside from re-creating different scenarios, VR headsets can be given to the jury to enable them to visualize better how the crime unfolded. Police officers can use smartphones to project crime scene videos to forensics experts. These experts can check Livestream footage and use AR to assess certain pieces of evidence they think the police officers should collect or investigate. Also, using machine learning and AI, the algorithm can scan hundreds of photos, texts, and videos related to the investigation, develop better matches, and identify emerging patterns.

However, some experts think investigators should use AR/VR with caution, as the technology has its limits. Assuming only the perspective of the suspect or the victim can introduce bias to the investigation. Another point to consider is that police officers might rely on the investigators’ instructions instead of entirely focusing on what they gather from the actual environment. Nonetheless, the technology can still help create a digital investigation that is updated in real-time and accessible at any time. 

Applications for forensic AR/VR

Some applications for forensic AR/VR may include:

• AR/VR tech being used in court to assist judges, attorneys, and the jury to better understand and visualize the case being discussed. However, verification procedures must be created to ensure that the 3D crime scene recreation does not include falsified footage or elements. 


• Investigators using AR/VR to re-create the victim’s corpse, including internal or invisible injuries to organs.


• Forensics experts using AR/VR to sketch crime scenes, simulate the events leading up to the crime with AI, and to introduce potential suspects with different possible outcomes.


• AR/VR devices being used to remotely take photographs and videos, saving investigators time and ensuring that evidence is untampered. 

Questions to comment on

• What are the other benefits of using AR/VR in forensics?


• How should investigators create a balance between actual investigation and digital re-creations?