(The) manipulative side of metaverse

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR) and Mixed Reality (MR) are emerging technologies in the metaverse. With the development of immersive technologies, the metaverse is seen as the next milestone to revolutionise experiences in several applications such as healthcare, education, research, manufacturing and e-commerce, e.g.. Making the metaverse an important medium in the post-pandemic era. However, under such circumstances, manipulative designs to `trick' users toward intended choices or outcomes can become more effective. This thesis elaborates on threats that can occur to the user when navigating the virtual landscapes of the metaverse, based on the visual and auditory cues in the design of the user experience. Following the analyses concerning the user threat, the thesis presents several user studies that further magnify the effect of intended manipulations on users of immersive environments. To protect users from threats in the metaverse the thesis proposes prototype/low-scale systems that can protect users. The findings of the thesis can reinforce understanding of design guidelines according to e.g. commercial and real-life experiences in the metaverse and the possibility for opportunities to improve user awareness of manipulative experiences. Finally, the thesis discusses the challenges and mitigations to address the threats of dark patterns in MAR applications.