Paper accepted @ ACM Multimedia 2026

Title: QoE and Depth Perception in Spatial Augmented Reality Darts

Authors: Milad Ghanbari, Yijue Huang, Wei Zhou, Patrick Le Callet, Christian Timmerer, Hadi Amirpour

Abstract

Accurate depth perception is critical for precision-based interaction in augmented reality applications, particularly in tasks that rely on ballistic motion such as throwing. While recent spatial computing devices support high-fidelity passthrough rendering and controller-free hand tracking, empirical evidence on how users perceive and act upon virtual depth in such environments remains limited. This paper investigates the effect of virtual target distance and time pressure on user performance and quality of experience in a physics-based augmented reality dart-throwing task implemented on the Apple Vision Pro. A controlled, repeated-measures user study with 22 participants evaluated performance at three target distances (near, standard, and far) and under a time-limited condition. Objective measures included score, hit accuracy, and throw timing, while subjective measures captured perceived depth, immersion, control, enjoyment, comfort, progress, time pressure, and adaptation. Results show a clear decrease in throwing accuracy as target distance increased, indicating limits in actionable depth perception despite visually stable spatial rendering. Under time pressure, participants significantly increased throwing speed without a corresponding loss in accuracy, suggesting robust motor execution once the interaction model was learned. Subjective ratings of control and depth understanding remained high across conditions, even when objective performance varied. These findings provide quantitative evidence that modern passthrough augmented reality systems can support reliable controller-free precision interaction, while also clarifying how depth and cognitive demand shape user performance and experience.