  Non-invasive steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) based
brain-computer interface (BCI) systems offer high bandwidth compared to other
BCI types and require only minimal calibration and training. Virtual reality
(VR) has been already validated as effective, safe, affordable and motivating
feedback modality for BCI experiments. Augmented reality (AR) enhances the
physical world by superimposing informative, context sensitive, computer
generated content. In the context of BCI, AR can be used as a friendlier and
more intuitive real-world user interface, thereby facilitating a more seamless
and goal directed interaction. This can improve practicality and usability of
BCI systems and may help to compensate for their low bandwidth. In this
feasibility study, three healthy participants had to finish a complex
navigation task in immersive VR and AR conditions using an online SSVEP BCI.
Two out of three subjects were successful in all conditions. To our knowledge,
this is the first work to present an SSVEP BCI that operates using target
stimuli integrated in immersive VR and AR (head-mounted display and camera).
This research direction can benefit patients by introducing more intuitive and
effective real-world interaction (e.g. smart home control). It may also be
relevant for user groups that require or benefit from hands free operation
(e.g. due to temporary situational disability).
