How can you make virtual and augmented reality accessible for people with motor impairments?

2 Choose the right input methods

The second step to make VR and AR accessible is to choose the right input methods for the interaction. Depending on the type and severity of the motor impairment, some users may have difficulty using conventional controllers, gestures, or voice commands. You can explore alternative input methods, such as eye tracking, head tracking, or switches, that can accommodate different levels of mobility and control. You can also provide options for users to customize the input settings, such as sensitivity, speed, or feedback, to match their comfort and preference.

3 Design the interface and content

The third step to make VR and AR accessible is to design the interface and content in a way that is clear, consistent, and easy to use. You can apply the principles of universal design, such as simplicity, flexibility, and tolerance, to ensure that the interface and content are understandable and adaptable for diverse users. You can also follow the guidelines and standards for accessibility, such as WCAG 2.1 or XR Access, to ensure that the interface and content are perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust.

4 Test the usability and accessibility

The fourth step to make VR and AR accessible is to test the usability and accessibility of the solution with real users. You can conduct usability testing, such as task analysis, heuristic evaluation, or user testing, to evaluate the effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction of the solution. You can also conduct accessibility testing, such as automated testing, expert review, or user testing, to identify and fix any barriers or issues that may prevent users from accessing the solution. By testing the usability and accessibility, you can validate the design decisions and improve the user experience.

5 Learn from examples

The fifth step to make VR and AR accessible is to learn from examples of existing solutions that have implemented accessibility features or strategies for people with motor impairments. You can look for case studies, demos, or reviews of VR and AR applications or platforms that have incorporated input methods, interface design, or content design that are accessible for people with motor impairments. You can also join communities, forums, or events that share best practices, resources, or insights on VR and AR accessibility.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?