User Experience Challenges in Augmented Reality Interfaces
Prof. S. Abikayil Aarthi
V. Chandra Mukilan, A. V. Deerga Tharsan, V. Ajay
Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Kings College of Engineering
Punalkulam, TN, India
aarthi.cse@kingsengg.edu.in
chandramukilanv@gmail.com, deerga0607@gmail.com
ajayvijayakumar710@gmail.com
Abstract— Augmented Reality (AR) is rapidly transforming user interaction by integrating virtual elements into real- world environments, creating immersive and interactive expe- riences across domains such as education, healthcare, gaming, and e-commerce; however, despite its growing adoption, AR introduces significant user experience (UX) challenges that differ from traditional interfaces. This paper investigates key issues including usability limitations, increased cognitive load, interaction complexity, spatial awareness difficulties, and user discomfort, as AR systems require users to simultaneously pro- cess physical and digital information, often leading to reduced efficiency and mental strain. Additional challenges such as tracking inaccuracies, limited field of view, gesture recognition errors, latency, and environmental dependencies further impact the effectiveness and reliability of AR interfaces, while poor design choices like visual clutter and lack of standardized interaction models can degrade user satisfaction. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and user-centered perspectives, this study identifies common usability barriers and evaluates current approaches to improving AR experiences. It emphasizes the importance of adaptive and context-aware design, ergonomic considerations, and simplified interaction techniques in addressing these challenges. Finally, the paper proposes practical design recommendations, including opti- mizing visual elements, minimizing cognitive overload, and implementing responsive feedback mechanisms, to enhance usability and overall user satisfaction, thereby contributing to the development of more efficient and user-friendly AR systems.
