  Augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) hold significant potential to transform
how we communicate, collaborate, and interact with others. However, there has
been a lack of work to date investigating accessibility barriers in relation to
immersive technologies for people with disabilities. To address current gaps in
knowledge, we led two multidisciplinary Sandpits with key stakeholders
(including academic researchers, AR/VR industry specialists, people with lived
experience of disability, assistive technologists, and representatives from
national charities and special needs colleges) to collaboratively explore and
identify existing challenges with AR and VR experiences. We present key themes
that emerged from Sandpit activities and map out the interaction barriers
identified across a spectrum of impairments (including physical, cognitive,
visual, and auditory disabilities). We conclude with recommendations for future
work addressing the challenges highlighted to support the development of more
inclusive AR and VR experiences.
