Description: Eye tracking is a technology that measures the direction of a user’s gaze, allowing for precise identification of where they are looking in a virtual or augmented environment. This technology relies on sensors and cameras that capture eye movement, analyzing the position of the pupil and the direction of the gaze. In the context of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), eye tracking becomes an essential tool for enhancing user interaction, providing a more immersive and natural experience. By allowing systems to respond to the user’s visual attention, more intuitive and dynamic interfaces can be created. Additionally, eye tracking can be used to optimize real-time graphics performance by adjusting visual quality based on gaze direction, resulting in a more efficient use of computational resources. This technology also has applications in human behavior research, enabling researchers to study how people interact with digital environments and which elements capture their attention. In summary, eye tracking is a key innovation that transforms how users interact with technology, making the experience smoother and user-centered.
History: Eye tracking has its roots in the 1960s when the first devices for measuring eye movement were developed. However, it was in the 1990s that the technology began to advance significantly, thanks to the miniaturization of components and the development of more sophisticated algorithms. In 1996, the eye tracking technology company EyeTech Digital Systems launched one of the first commercial eye tracking systems. Over the years, the technology has evolved, integrating into virtual and augmented reality devices, allowing its use in various applications, from research to entertainment.
Uses: Eye tracking is used in various fields, including market research, where it helps understand how consumers interact with products and advertisements. In healthcare, it is applied in the rehabilitation of patients with motor disabilities, allowing control of devices through gaze. In education, it is used to analyze student attention during learning. Additionally, in the development of video games and virtual reality applications, eye tracking enhances user immersion and interaction.
Examples: A practical example of eye tracking in augmented reality is the use of various devices that allow users to interact with holograms through gaze. In the gaming realm, multiple titles have incorporated this technology to provide a more immersive experience, where players can select objects and make decisions based on their visual attention. In the research field, companies have developed eye tracking systems used in usability studies to evaluate how users navigate websites or applications.
