Non-immersive

Describing an experience or technology that does not fully engage or envelop the user, remaining separate from the sensory experience. It implies a lack of complete absorption, where the user maintains a degree of awareness of their surroundings. Often associated with traditional forms of media and interaction, a non-immersive system offers a partial or indirect engagement with the content or environment, relying on visual or auditory cues to convey information rather than creating a sense of presence or complete simulation.

Non-immersive meaning with examples

• Reading a physical book is a non-immersive experience. You're aware of your physical surroundings as you read. The story engages your mind, but doesn't surround you. The user can put the book down and immediately return to their world.
• Watching a movie on a standard television screen is a non-immersive viewing experience. While visually stimulating, you remain aware of your environment, not fully immersed in the film. The user's senses are not overwhelmed, allowing for a break in the user's focus.
• Listening to a podcast on a set of headphones is a non-immersive interaction. Sound enters your ears but you can continue to do other tasks, not a full sensory simulation. There is no 3D, or virtual element that would change it.
• Browsing the internet on a computer monitor is a non-immersive activity. You see information displayed in front of you but remain in a seated position. The experience is confined to the screen, not the user.