A Research Overview of Mobile Projected User Interfaces

Abstract

In the last few years, the miniaturization of projectors has gained certain momentum. Today, projectors are available that can easily fit into the palm of a hand. Moreover, these devices are even being integrated into mobile phones. Mobile projectors allow users to project digital imagery into physical space virtually anywhere and anytime. The unique characteristics of small-scale projectors open up interesting opportunities for mobile user interface research. This article provides a comprehensive overview of research on mobile projected user interfaces according to three pertinent research directions: (i) nomadic, (ii) handheld, and (iii) tangible projection interfaces. Furthermore, the article outlines future research challenges and indicates trends in neighboring research fields that might foster innovation in the mobile projected user interfaces domain.