spatial-surface-architecture

Surface-first architecture in spatial UI prioritizes placing widgets and stickers on real-world surfaces detected via WebXR over custom 3D environments or free space. It implements a room-as-canvas paradigm using a unified surface registry and snap point strategy.

When no surfaces are detected in VR, widget placement must transition from surface-anchored diegetic UI to alternative non-diegetic strategies. This Skill documents how to handle fallback behaviors for interactive panels when environmental detection fails.

Diegetic UI in AR applications exists within the spatial environment and attaches to detected surfaces, while non-diegetic UI floats freely without surface anchoring. This distinction defines how widgets and stickers behave in spatial contexts.

Yes, this spatial UI architecture incorporates platform guidelines and best practices for both Meta Horizon OS and Apple visionOS. It addresses ergonomic design patterns for effective widget placement across both XR platforms.

The best way to anchor interactive panels in VR is using a surface-first hybrid architecture that prioritizes real-world surfaces via WebXR. This approach aligns with platform design guidelines and implements a unified snap point strategy.

A room-as-canvas paradigm for XR UX design grounds spatial UI in the user's physical environment rather than custom 3D environments, ensuring intuitive and comfortable user experiences. It leverages a unified surface registry for consistent widget placement.