What factors influence continuous usage intention of head-mounted display-based virtual reality content? A cross-sectional survey

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to explore the continuous usage intention of head-mounted display-based virtual reality (HMD-based VR) content among college students. The study also sought to understand how this intention is influenced by factors related to personal cognition, social aspects, VR content, and HMD-related elements. METHODS: This descriptive correlational study used a self-report questionnaire to survey 217 students from two universities in Korea who had prior experience with HMD-based VR content. RESULTS: The mean score for continuous usage intention of HMD-based VR content was 2.59±0.57 points (range, 1–5 points). Regarding the average frequency of HMD-based VR content usage, 64.5% of participants reported using it 1 to 2 times, while 91.7% indicated a total HMD-based VR usage period of less than 6 months. Factors such as personal cognition, VR content, social aspects, and HMD-related elements had explanatory power of 35.1%, 10.7%, 4.4%, and 2.5%, respectively, for the continuous usage intention of HMD-based VR content. Additionally, engagement (β=.45, p<.001), influential others (β=.37, p<.001), environmental support (β=–.18, p=.030), and cyber sickness (β=–.21, p=.001) were identified as having a significant influence. CONCLUSION: When developing HMD-based VR content, strategies to improve users’ personal cognition should be included. Additionally, it is necessary to develop strategies that enhance enjoyment and interest in the content, while also facilitating ongoing social support. Furthermore, coping strategies should be devised that take into account cyber sickness, a potential side effect of these devices.