Balancing usability, user experience, security and privacy in XR systems: a multidimensional approach

In the rapidly evolving landscape of Extended Reality technologies, including Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and Mixed Reality, there is a demand for security and privacy to co-exist harmoniously with usability and user experience. The delicate balance of usability, user experience, security, and privacy takes on a keen importance. This research paper delves into unique conflicting factors and explores the strategies in achieving this delicate balance, shedding lights on the overlapping elements between usability, user experience, security and privacy in XR environments. The research takes a multifaceted approach, integrating theoretical analysis with practical insights derived from real-world case studies and an empirical user study. The user study, conducted to uncover user preferences toward achieving a balance between these conflicting factors, provides data-driven insights into the interaction of usability, user experience, privacy, and security. The data analysis performed using Python reveals how security, privacy, usability and user experience can be seamlessly integrated into XR ensuring that technology not only meets user expectations but also protects sensitive information. Through a multidimensional approach, this study reveals insights into how privacy and security considerations can be woven into the fabric of XR, enriching user experiences while cultivating a culture of trust and empowerment. This study is an extension of our previous work "embracing XR systems, not compromising on privacy and security" and aims to guide the design of XR environment that are both user-friendly and safe and secure, ultimately establishing a culture of trust and empowerment.