Exploring Experiential Differences Between Virtual and Physical Memory-Linked Objects in Extended Reality

TL;DR

This study compares physical, virtual, and gallery interfaces in XR for sharing personal memories, revealing trade-offs in social connection, engagement, and usability.

Contribution

It provides empirical insights into how different XR memory interfaces influence social and emotional experiences, guiding future design.

Findings

Physical objects enhance social connection and conversation.

Virtual objects balance engagement and usability.

Gallery interface is efficient but less personal.

Abstract

Extended Reality (XR) enables immersive capture and re-experience of personal memories, yet how interface representations shape these experiences remains underexplored. We examine how users relive and share XR memories through three interaction approaches: (1) physical memory-linked objects, (2) virtual memory-linked objects, and (3) a conventional virtual gallery interface. In a within-subjects study (N=24, 12 pairs), participants captured shared experiences using 360{\deg} video and later accessed and shared these memories across the three interfaces. We analyzed open-ended qualitative responses focusing on perceived value, enjoyment, usability, emotional attachment, and social connection. The findings reveal trade-offs: physical objects fostered stronger social connection and conversation through tangible exchange; virtual objects balanced engagement and usability; and the gallery interface was efficient but less personal. These results suggest that object-based representations, physical and virtual, support key social dimensions of XR memory experiences, offering lessons for designing future systems that emphasize shared meaning and interpersonal connection.