Spatial computing is an emerging interaction paradigm that blends digital content with the physical world, reshaping how people perceive, explore, and collaborate through technology. Yet despite growing momentum in both research and industry, the field still lacks shared conceptual clarity, such as consistent language for describing what “spatial” is and how to evaluate user experience in mixed physical-virtual environments. In this research thread, we are developing conceptual foundations for spatial computing in HCI and articulating core UX considerations in spatial contexts, while extending the agenda toward children’s experiences and needs. For example, we investigate how spatial systems can better accommodate children’s embodied abilities, attention, sense-making, and social play, and how interaction design can support learning, creativity, wellbeing, and safety. Through conceptual and empirical inquiry alongside design-led exploration, we aim to produce actionable insights for the HCI community, child-centered spatial computing designs, and evidence-informed guidance for researchers, educators, and practitioners.

What is “Spatial” about Spatial Computing? [LINK]
Yibo Wang, Yuhan Luo, Janghee Cho, Junnan Yu
arXiv preprint arXiv:2508.20477