XR Commandment #7 - Use the Space, Not Just the Screen

7️⃣ Last post in our 10 XR Commandments series, let’s look at number 7. Spatial computing must mean something, right? Far from the buzzword, physicality and motion are essential to XR. Think of the way best-seller VR game Beat Saber make you dodge, slice, and squat: you embody the experience. Mixed-reality activations anchor digital layers to the real world. When you design for depth and motion, even a simple content can become super effective.

Four principles to remember:

• Spatialize the user interface and user journey. Place buttons and virtual elements around the user so they must reach for them.
• Encourage full-body movements. Jump, lean, duck... Embodiment imprints memories much more than static viewing could ever do. Don’t forget to give clear audio/visual cues so users know when to move and when to rest.
• Blend digital with the physical. Use Mixed Reality to place context-aware elements on the appropriate surfaces. Walls, floor, tables or couches can now be recognized by most headsets, use it to your advantage. The experience should happen with the room, not in the room.
• Respect comfort and accessibility. Arms held “Minority Report”-style tire quickly; standing/moving can exclude some users. Offer seated modes, shortcuts, and adjustable reach distances.

Quick checklist:

• Keep in mind the context: jumping can be fun at home, weird in a trade-show.
• Keep interactive zones at comfortable distances for long experiences.
• Avoid long, boring walks: use portals or teleportations.
• Provide a toggle between interaction modes for accessibility.
• Use all tech available: AI object classification, mesh occlusion, eye/hand tracking.

Reversal: Again, don’t forget commandment #9 and the context. virtual training don’t need fancy spatial interfaces: you need to maximize efficiency and accuracy. Meditation apps will of course minimize movement, and experiences designed for accessibility must have a dedicated user experience.

Designing an XR activation? If users never have to lean, duck, or peek around a corner, let’s chat: there’s unused real estate all around them. 😉