Effects of button colour and background on augmented reality interfaces

This study aims to understand the usability of common button colours and background choices in the existing augmented reality (AR) interface. AR is increasingly used in dynamic situations, such as driving using an AR head-up display. However, studies regarding the usability of AR interfaces, especially about the colours, are scarce. Twenty-four participants performed button selection tasks in an experiment using Microsoft HoloLens. Three measures (task completion time, the number of errors, and button colour visibility were collected for the 12 experimental conditions (3 backgrounds by 4 button colours). Significant differences were found in completion time between backgrounds and blue button visibility. On a moving background, the most effective button colour is orange, and the most minor effective button colour is blue. The results of this study can be used for colour choices in designing AR applications and devices.