Authors: Jazmin Collins*, Crescentia Jung*, Yeonju Jang (* indicates co-first authorship and equal contribution).
Our first project explored using the sighted guide technique in VR to support accessibility for blind and low vision people. We created a prototype with a guidance system and conducted a study with 16 blind and low vision participants. Participants completed various tasks and explored the virtual environments with their guide. From this project, we uncovered participants’ preferences for a guide in VR and a broad design space for virtual guides.
We have begun a second project that explores using an AI-powered guide. We plan to conduct iterative co-design sessions with blind and low vision participants to explore the expectations of the behavior, appearance, and functions of an ideal AI virtual guide in VR.
Watch Lucy and Crescentia present “The Guide Has Your Back” at the 2023 XR Access Symposium.
