A Systematic Literature Review of Handheld Augmented Reality Solutions for People with Disabilities

Abstract

Mobile applications on smartphones and tablets have become part of our everyday lives. The number of augmented reality (AR) technology applications is also increasing. Augmented reality has proven to be effective in various areas of human life, from education, marketing, and training to navigation. All people have the right to access information and use available technologies, but not everyone has the same opportunities. To contribute to the digital inclusion of people who are often disadvantaged in this regard, we should think about the accessibility of digital technologies, including mobile augmented reality (MAR). The specificity of MAR is a new way of human–computer interaction compared to traditional mobile solutions. The objective of this review paper is to analyze the handheld AR solutions developed for people with different disabilities to identify accessibility challenges related to interaction when performing different tasks in AR. It also explores and presents accessibility features and other accessibility best practices, as well as potential future research directions related to the personalization and customization of such solutions for individuals. The results of this literature review can contribute to the creation of accessibility guidelines in the field of handheld AR and encourage the development of accessible AR solutions that can benefit not only people with disabilities but also people without disabilities.

Beyond Sight: Enhancing Augmented Reality Interactivity with Audio-Based and Non-Visual Interfaces

“…These advancements have showcased AR's capacity to seamlessly integrate digital information into the physical world, thereby offering enriched, accessible experiences to users with visual impairments. Despite these progresses, the broader scope of AR application continues to marginally address the specific accessibility needs of this demographic, primarily due to a predominant focus on visual-centric interfaces [4,7]. This oversight not only underscores a critical gap in the inclusive development of AR technologies but also highlights the pressing need for interfaces that embrace a wider spectrum of sensory inputs, thereby fostering a more inclusive user experience.…”

“…This adaptability has proven effective in improving comfort levels and skill sets and in promoting social interactions among students with special needs [6]. However, despite AR's extensive applicability, its development has predominantly focused on individuals with autism spectrum disorders and mental disabilities, often overlooking the creation of AR solutions tailored for people with visual impairments [6,7].…”

ARPocketLab—A Mobile Augmented Reality System for Pedagogic Applications

“…Despite the engagement that can be experienced by tangible approaches, such a family of devices implies scalability issues and learning impacts. With more emphasis on mobile technologies and accessibility, Žilak carried out a review [24], aiming to shed light how AR solutions can be tailored to meet the diverse needs of users with disabilities and thereby promote social and digital inclusion.…”

The Impact of the Use of Augmented Reality on Online Purchasing Behavior Sustainability: The Saudi Consumer as a Model

“…Augmented reality (AR) is considered an emerging technology with promising potential in various fields, such as education, marketing, engineering, and others [1]. In addition, its use is regarded as a new form of technology in modern human-computer interaction, with increased acceptance influencing the use of technological interaction [2]. The leading business-consulting firms and statistical organizations express optimism about the future of AR and predict it to become an industry in its own right, independent of games and movies [3].…”