How long do you want to maintain this thing? Understanding the Challenges Faced by WebXR Creators

Abstract

The WebXR Device API allows the creation of web browser-based eXtended Reality (XR) applications, i.e. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) applications, by providing access to input and output capabilities from AR and VR devices. WebXR applications can be experienced through the WebXR supported browsers of standalone and PC-connected VR headsets, AR headsets, mobile devices with or without headsets, and personal computers or desktops. WebXR has been growing in popularity since its introduction due to the several benefits it promises such as allowing creators to utilise WebGL’s rich development ecosystem; create cross-platform and future proof XR applications; and create applications that can be experienced in VR or AR with minimal code changes. However, research has not been conducted to understand the experiences of WebXR creators. To address this gap, we conducted a qualitative study that involved interviews with 11 WebXR creators with diverse backgrounds aimed at understanding their experiences, and in this paper, we present 8 key challenges reported by these creators.