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Guidance on extended reality technology

Guide to help children use virtual, augmented and mixed reality technology safely.

Overview

Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) are collectively known as extended reality (XR). These technologies offer users immersive experiences that blend the digital and physical worlds. They provide exciting opportunities for learning and entertainment, but to use them safely it is important to take precautions.

Virtual reality (VR)

VR creates an immersive digital environment using images, sound and other stimuli. Through headsets and controllers users can interact with and feel as if they are physically present in a different world. Many popular games use VR in different ways, including for:

  • physical activity 
  • deep storytelling 
  • exploration

Augmented reality (AR)

AR overlays digital content onto the physical world through devices like smartphones and AR glasses. For example, AR can: 

  • display navigation directions on a car's windshield
  • project virtual furniture into your living room to see how it fits

A well-known AR game is ‘Pokémon Go’. In this game players explore their physical surroundings to catch virtual creatures.

Mixed reality (MR)

Mixed reality (MR) blends VR and AR to create immersive environments. Through it users can interact with real and virtual objects simultaneously.

Benefits and risks

XR unlocks a world of exciting possibilities, but it requires important safety considerations. Being aware of its potential risks can help you enjoy it safely and responsibly.

Benefits

Enhanced learning

The immersive experience XR provides can:

  • make educational content more engaging (for example, the Aberwla VR application) 
  • provide realistic simulations without real-world risks (valuable for training across various fields)

Accessibility

Immersive technologies can:

  • provide new ways for people to experience and interact with the world, such as through virtual travel
  • improve accessibility by enhancing visual and auditory experiences for users with impairments

Physical activity

Some games promote physical activity by encouraging players to move around in the real world.

Social interaction

Many XR games allow users to connect and collaborate with others.

Potential risks

Physical safety

VR headsets can pose a risk of accidents if users do not have a safe play area free of obstacles.

Screen time

Excessive screen time can:

  • lead to eye strain
  • disrupt a healthy balance between gaming and other activities 

Privacy concerns

Sharing personal information and location data can compromise your privacy and safety if not properly managed.

Inappropriate content

VR multi-user spaces may expose users to violent, sexual or otherwise inappropriate content. 

Exploitation

The anonymity offered by avatars can reduce users’ inhibitions. This can encourage them to take risks. NSPCC research found that children and young people using XR can be at increased risk of being:

  • groomed
  • coerced
  • exploited

Safety tips

Age-appropriate content

Check age ratings

Always verify the age ratings of XR games to ensure they are suitable for the player's age group. Ratings from organisations like PEGI (Pan European Game Information) can help you.

Check content descriptors

These provide useful additional information about a game's content, such as whether it includes:

  • violence
  • bad language 
  • suggestive themes

Privacy settings

Review privacy policies

Before using an XR application, check its privacy policy to see what data it collects and how it uses it.

Adjust privacy settings

There are several ways you can control what information is shared on your device and within apps. These include: 

  • disabling location tracking
  • limiting data collection
  • managing permissions for camera and microphone access

Use secure connections

For XR applications that require online access you should:

  • ensure your internet connection is secure
  • avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities

Parental controls

Set up parental controls

Use these features on XR devices to manage and restrict content access. This can include setting age restrictions, limiting screen time and monitoring usage.

Create separate accounts for children

This allows you to tailor specific controls based on your child’s age and maturity.

Monitor activity

Have regular conversations with your child about:

  • what they are accessing
  • how much time they are spending on XR devices

Resources on Hwb

Further information