Film, interrupted: investigating how mobile device notifications affect immersion during movies

Jacob M. Rigby, Duncan P. Brumby, Sandy J. J. Gould, Anna L. Cox

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

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Abstract

Mobile devices are increasingly used while watching video, both as a secondary device and for dedicated viewing. However, devices frequently issue notifications that can interrupt viewing. This study investigated the effect of interruptions from notifications on viewer immersion. Participants watched 10 minutes of a movie without notifications, and 10 minutes while receiving message notifications. There were two participant groups: one watched video on a 30-inch monitor with messages sent to a separate smartphone; while another watched on a smartphone while also receiving messages on it. Viewer immersion was assessed after each condition via questionnaire. We also considered message response times. Results showed that immersion scores were lower when the video was interrupted with notifications, regardless of viewing device. Message response times were fastest when using the phone as a secondary device. Our results suggest that device-driven interruptions should be minimised for an immersive film experience.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 19th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction with Mobile Devices and Services (MobileHCI '17)
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery (ACM)
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)978-1-4503-5075-4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 4 Sept 2017
EventThe 19th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction with Mobile Devices and Services (MobileHCI '17) - Vienna, Austria
Duration: 4 Sept 20177 Sept 2017

Conference

ConferenceThe 19th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction with Mobile Devices and Services (MobileHCI '17)
Country/TerritoryAustria
CityVienna
Period4/09/177/09/17

Keywords

  • television
  • video
  • Media multitasking
  • interruptions
  • notifications
  • dual screening
  • task switching
  • film

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