Immersive Interaction for Inclusive Virtual Reality Navigation: Enhancing Accessibility for Socially Underprivileged Users

Existing virtual reality (VR) street view and 360-degree road view applications often rely on complex controllers or touch interfaces, which can hinder user immersion and accessibility. These challenges are particularly pronounced for under-represented populations, such as older adults and individuals with limited familiarity with digital devices. Such groups frequently face physical or environmental constraints that restrict their ability to engage in outdoor activities, highlighting the need for alternative methods of experiencing the world through virtual environments. To address this issue, we propose a VR street view application featuring an intuitive, gesture-based interface designed to simplify user interaction and enhance accessibility for socially disadvantaged individuals. Our approach seeks to optimize digital accessibility by reducing barriers to entry, increasing user immersion, and facilitating a more inclusive virtual exploration experience. Through usability testing and iterative design, this study evaluates the effectiveness of gesture-based interactions in improving accessibility and engagement. The findings emphasize the importance of user-centered design in fostering an inclusive VR environment that accommodates diverse needs and abilities.