Exploring Experiential Differences Between Virtual and Physical Memory-Linked Objects in Extended Reality
This research addresses the problem of designing effective XR memory systems for users by exploring trade-offs in social and usability aspects, though it is incremental in nature.
The study investigated how different interface representations in Extended Reality (XR) affect users' experiences of reliving and sharing personal memories, finding that physical memory-linked objects fostered stronger social connection, virtual objects balanced engagement and usability, and a conventional gallery interface was efficient but less personal.
Extended Reality (XR) enables immersive capture and re-experience of personal memories, yet how interface representations shape these experiences remains underexplored. We examine how users relive and share XR memories through three interaction approaches: (1) physical memory-linked objects, (2) virtual memory-linked objects, and (3) a conventional virtual gallery interface. In a within-subjects study (N=24, 12 pairs), participants captured shared experiences using 360° video and later accessed and shared these memories across the three interfaces. We analyzed open-ended qualitative responses focusing on perceived value, enjoyment, usability, emotional attachment, and social connection. The findings reveal trade-offs: physical objects fostered stronger social connection and conversation through tangible exchange; virtual objects balanced engagement and usability; and the gallery interface was efficient but less personal. These results suggest that object-based representations, physical and virtual, support key social dimensions of XR memory experiences, offering lessons for designing future systems that emphasize shared meaning and interpersonal connection.