Design and Usability Evaluation of Virtual Reality Meditation Applications

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) meditation is increasingly being developed and implemented in response to rising mental health challenges and evolving attentional demands. Despite its growing adoption, limited research has examined the scope of commercially available VR meditation applications or systematically characterized their design and meditative qualities. This iLEAD contribution presents a conceptual, design-oriented evaluation of VR meditation applications and their scope while introducing the VR Meditation Matrix, an evaluative framework designed to guide future research and development. The framework integrates design, usability, and meditation factors to support more consistent classification and responsible development. Drawing on experiential engagement with four VR meditation applications, this study demonstrates how the matrix can be employed to examine the potential benefits and risks associated with sustained VR meditation practices. By foregrounding design choices and mindfulness outcomes, this work advances understanding of how VR meditation can be effectively and responsibly designed to support wellbeing across education and healthcare contexts.