Exploring the effects of AR filters and self-view in videoconferencing tools

Abstract

The increasing popularity of videoconferences (VC) for online communication following the COVID-19 pandemic has warranted the investigation into the new phenomenon of videoconference fatigue (VF). VF is described as the emotional and physical exhaustion after conducting VCs. To mitigate the experience of VF, the option to use a face filter and to toggle the self-view function have been suggested but not yet researched. Hence, the objective of this study was to explore whether using a face filter and turning off the self-view function could improve the VC experience. A 2×2 dyadic experimental design (N = 154) was conducted to investigate the effects of a face filter and the self-view function on VF and affect. The results uncovered patterns of positive and negative affect with VF, as well as interaction effects. The paper discussed reasons for such patterns of affect and VF, as well as implications on the use of features in VC tools to improve the VC experience.