Multi-view Layout Design for VR Concert Experience

Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, concerts are gradually being held online. Beyond live-streaming, it has recently become popular to utilize various realistic video technologies to add entertainment value and immersion to online concerts. We conducted a multi-view layout design study in a virtual reality environment with a head-mounted display to help users effectively explore and immerse themselves in multiple videos from various angles. Based on an analysis of an existing user interface for multi-view navigation and the characteristics of virtual reality, we proposed four layouts, i.e., 1) an evenly divided space, 2) an evenly divided designated space, 3) a widget type, and 4) an avatar type. We implemented a prototype by applying Korean pop concerts, where multi-view videos are the most actively utilized, and then conducted a user study to evaluate the usability and preferences of the proposed layouts. The results show that it is adequate to arrange the multi-view videos within a 60° to 110° space and on the left and right side of the main view, which is a range that the users can comfortably access. In addition, when placing multiple videos in a designated space, it is helpful to use visual effects or simple avatars to avoid visual burden being placed on the users.