Listening to music may be the solution to reducing dizziness, nausea, and headaches experienced by virtual reality (VR) users after prolonged use of digital devices. According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Edinburgh, incorporating upbeat or relaxing music in VR experiences significantly reduces cybersickness.
Cybersickness is a type of motion sickness that occurs when using VR devices such as computer games. The study found that participants who listened to electronic music without lyrics or specific sequences during roller coaster rides experienced less intense symptoms of cybersickness compared to those who rode in silence.
The study involved 39 participants aged between 22-36 years old who were immersed in a virtual environment where they experienced three roller coaster rides meant to induce cybersickness. Eye-tracking tests were also performed to measure their reading speed and pupil size before and after each ride. The researchers found that higher levels of gaming experience were associated with lower cybersickness.
Dr. Sarah E MacPherson from the University of Edinburgh School of Philosophy, Psychology, and Language Sciences said: “Our study suggests relaxing or upbeat music as a solution for cybersickness in immersive virtual reality.” She added that the development of music as an intervention could encourage more widespread use of VR in educational and clinical settings.
The supposition, incorporating music into VR experiences can help reduce symptoms of cybersickness while potentially improving thinking skills, reaction times, and reading ability. As we continue to explore the possibilities offered by technology like VR, it’s important to consider how we can optimize our experiences for maximum benefit while minimizing potential negative side effects.
It is apparently, this study highlights the potential benefits that music can have on reducing cybersickness in immersive virtual reality experiences.
