Virtual reality (VR) is a computer technology that uses VR devices, such as headsets, sometimes in combination with physical spaces or multi-projected environments, to generate realistic images, sounds, and other sensations that simulate a user's physical presence in a three-dimensional (3D) virtual environment and allow the VR user to interact with the virtual environment. Many applications such as gaming, content consuming, and productivity have been developed using VR technology to provide user a more immersive experience.
In some cases, when a user needs to select a virtual element (for example, a virtual key) in a VR user interface (UI) to interact with a VR scenario, the user can select the virtual element in the VR UI by using an external device connected to the VR device. The external device connected to the VR device can be a smartphone, a joystick, or other handheld input devices. When using a VR application, the user can use the external device to control an operational focus (for example, a cursor) in the VR UI, move the operational focus to a virtual element, and select the virtual element in the UI by clicking a button or touchscreen on the external device.
In some cases, a clicking action can be simulated using a “hover timeout” event to select the virtual element in the VR UI. That is, a virtual element can be selected by hovering the operational focus on the virtual element for a pre-determined duration (for example, a three second timeout). When the operational focus stays on the virtual element for the duration, the virtual element is selected. Because the user needs to wait for a period of time to select the element, this method may not be suitable for VR applications that require real-time responses.