Integrability and Reliability of Smart Wearables in Virtual Reality Experiences: A Subjective Review

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) is now an affordable technology that is starting to penetrate the mass market. While cardboard is the most distributed system, it lacks interaction to provide really engaging experiences. Providing low cost solutions to enhance VR experiences is crucial. We hypothesized that the integration of a smart wristband in a VR experience, provide a reliable and comfortable enough setup to add a biofeedback loop to a game. We created a physiologically enhanced game and coupled it with a smart wristband capable of monitoring one's heart rate. We tested our game with and without biofeedback and compared the reported novelty. We observed a high interest of the participants for the integration of smart wearables in VR. We highlighted the stability of our setup, even in mobility and the reported absence of discomfort created by the addition of the wristband.