Design Principles and Challenges for Gaze + Pinch Interaction in XR

For Extended Reality (XR) headsets, a key aim is the natural interaction in 3D space beyond what traditional methods of keyboard, mouse, and touchscreen can offer. With the release of the Apple Vision Pro, a novel interaction paradigm is now widely available where users seamlessly navigate content through the combined use of their eyes and hands. However, blending these modalities poses unique design challenges due to their dynamic nature and the absence of established principles and standards.
In this article, we present five design principles and issues for the Gaze + Pinch interaction technique, informed by eye-hand research in the human-computer interaction field. The design principles encompass mechanisms like division of labor and minimalistic timing, which are crucial for usability, alongside enhancements for the manipulation of objects, indirect interactions, and drag & drop. Whether in design, technology, or research domains, this exploration offers valuable perspectives for navigating the evolving landscape of 3D interaction.