New frontiers like Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Spatial Computing are expanding the possibilities for digital experiences since technology is advancing at an unmatched rate.
Business, healthcare, education, and entertainment are all being converted by these developments but everyone must be able to benefit from them, especially those in third-world nations.
Inclusive UX (user experience) is now a necessity rather than a luxury in order to close the digital gap and ensure that emerging technologies serve everyone worldwide.
In many underdeveloped countries, accessibility problems in digital experiences are often associated with budgetary constraints, infrastructure limitations, and technological literacy.
It is difficult for many individuals to participate in typical AR/VR interactions since high-speed internet, new technologies, and advanced computer power are not widely available. But these technologies have the potential of redefining access to healthcare, education, job training, and more if they are developed with inclusivity in mind.
One of the most important aspects for inclusive UX in emerging technologies is device adaptability. Customers with low-cost devices or limited processing power are unable to use AR/VR apps because many of them are made for high-end technology.
Developing WebAR-enabled AR applications that are portable and don’t require expensive headsets can improve accessibility.
Similarly, a wider audience can be reached by making VR content compatible with inexpensive mobile VR devices rather to expensive headsets like the Apple Vision Pro or Meta Quest.
The optimisation process of low bandwidth is another important aspect. Many third-world nations have slow, costly, or unreliable internet connectivity.
Experiences with spatial computing that primarily rely on cloud computing or real-time streaming could put off users in these regions.
By employing offline capabilities, compressed files, and progressive loading techniques, developers can counteract this and allow users to engage with immersive experiences without constantly requiring high-speed internet.
Both linguistic and cultural accessibility are crucial for developing inclusive AR and VR experiences. The fact that English is usually utilised as the default language when creating new technology products may turn off non-native speakers.
Voice-guided interactions in many local languages, AI-powered real-time translation, and culturally relevant user interface elements can all help boost user acceptance.
Additionally, to accommodate the unique learning requirements and circumstances of users in various locations, spatial computing applications intended for education and skill development should be localised.
Depending on how they are invented, AR, VR, and spatial computing can either empower or severely restrict individuals with disabilities.
People with mobility disabilities can connect in a number of ways as a result of adaptive input techniques like haptic feedback, gesture-based navigation, and voice instructions.
High contrast graphics, screen reader compatibility, and audio descriptions to help visually impaired persons navigate digital surroundings should all be features of augmented reality experiences.
In a similar vein, immersive settings ought to take into account spatial audio design that offers navigational signals.
In poor nations, cost is frequently the biggest obstacle to adoption. In order to ensure accessibility, collaborations between IT companies and educational institutions, NGOs, and local governments can be extremely important. Initiatives that supply open-source or inexpensive software, recycle or subsidise obsolete AR/VR equipment, and integrate immersive learning into public schools can make a big difference.
To create inclusive, my advise is that AR, VR, and spatial computing experiences, governments, tech companies, advocacy agencies, and educational institutions requires cooperation.
Leaders in the private sector must collaborate with legislators to support accessible innovation and advocate for more reasonably priced hardware options.
In modern technologies, inclusive user experience (UX) is about innovation, not just conformity. Developers and designers can open up completely new markets and empower millions of people who have historically been left behind in the digital revolution by creating AR, VR, and spatial computing experiences that put accessibility first.
Technology should be created for everyone, everywhere, and not just for a select few.
*Folashade Blessing Adegbite biography:
Folashade Adegbite is a seasoned product designer with years of experience across various technology sectors leading the charge in designs and user experience innovation. Her innovative spirit has made her create amazing product experiences for tech apps across Africa.
She continues to lend her voice to women empowerment conversations particularly around tech empowerment for women and how to bring the Africa of the future where technology is not alien to us but we are the ones building the tech needed for the new age.
