The Effects of Display Devices on Locating Sound Sources in Virtual Environments

Abstract

Sound localization plays a crucial role in both real and virtual environments, particularly for effective navigation. Naturally, this ability can be affected by various factors. To understand how it is influenced, the sound localization skills of 110 students were measured within a virtual environment. Two versions of this virtual space were created, and all students used both. The desktop display version was used first, then the Gear VR version was used afterward. A Sony PlayStationTM Platinum Wireless headset was used on both versions. The results were grouped and examined by various human characteristics and display devices. According to the results, the following conclusions can be made: gender influenced sound localization, since males outperformed females using the desktop display, but not with the Gear VR. This was due to significant accuracy improvements for females with the mentioned head-mounted display. Previous virtual reality experience improved accuracy and speed with the Gear VR. The proportions of incorrect localizations differed significantly between the two versions, indicating that the immersion level affects them. These results can affect the design and implementation processes of future virtual reality experiences, in several fields of research and entertainment.