Mind Games! Exploring the Impact of Dark Patterns in Mixed Reality Scenarios MHCI021
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Mixed Reality (MR) integrates virtual objects with the real world, offering potential but raising concerns about misuse through dark patterns. This study explored the effects of four dark patterns, adapted from prior research, and applied to MR across three targets: places, products, and people. In a two-factorial within-subject study with 74 participants, we analyzed 13 videos simulating MR experiences during a city walk. Results show that all dark patterns significantly reduced user comfort, increased reactance, and decreased the intention to use MR glasses, with the most disruptive effects linked to personal or monetary manipulation. Additionally, the dark patterns of Emotional and Sensory Manipulation and Hiding Information produced similar impacts on the user in MR, suggesting a re-evaluation of current classifications to go beyond deceptive design techniques. Our findings highlight the importance of developing ethical design guidelines and tools to detect and prevent dark patterns as immersive technologies continue to evolve.
DOI: 10.1145/3743709
Authors: Luca-Maxim Meinhardt, Simon Demharter, Michael Rietzler, Mark Colley, Thomas Eßmeyer, Enrico Rukzio
Institutions: Universität Ulm, University College London, University of Bremen
Language: English
Subfield: Human-Computer Interaction
Field: Computer Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4414161123