According to a new study, Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be used to combat nausea, migraines, and disorientation among virtual reality (VR) users and make the technology more accessible.
Researchers from Charles Darwin University (CDU) and Torrens University in Australia stated that the ability to effectively predict and prevent cybersickness was crucial due to the increasing use and demand for virtual reality (VR) technology.
They investigated the use of AI techniques and machine learning algorithms to predict cybersickness in potential VR equipment users.
The data from the questionnaire were divided into two groups: those who would experience cybersickness symptoms within minutes of using VR devices and those who would have no problems using VR devices.
Demonstrated that AI could predict VR user discomfort with an accuracy of 93%.
Niusha Shafiabady, Associate Professor, Faculty of Science and Technology at CDU, stated, “Most people experience discomfort after a VR experience, and the ability to predict the occurrence of cybersickness for an individual allows VR developers and manufacturers to come up with solutions and take preemptive actions to create a better experience for VR users and address the issues causing it.”
“The demand for remote access and virtual education has increased substantially in the technological era, particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic. “Cybersickness is one of the factors preventing users from utilizing VR devices due to the extreme discomfort caused by the VR experience,” she added.
The next stage, according to Professor Shafiabady, could be to use explainable AI algorithms to investigate why the AI algorithms made their predictions, giving developers and manufacturers a reason for user unease.
“We are approaching a time when VR devices will be used for essential activities such as servicing manufacturers remotely and teaching, as well as less essential but more enjoyable activities such as viewing the universe through a VR lens,” she said.
“In the age of technology, VR users should be able to enjoy the benefits of technology without experiencing any discomfort.”
