Effectiveness of augmented reality technology in improving navigation performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Augmented reality (AR) integrates virtual objects in the real world, allowing users to interact intuitively with navigation information. This study systematically reviewed 13 articles on AR technology published from 2005 to 2024 through meta-analysis, comprising a total of 400 participants, to examine its effectiveness in enhancing navigation performance. Compared with traditional navigation tools, the results showed that AR technology more effectively enhances navigation performance, with the overall effect size calculated as 0.554 (95% CI = 0.404–0.704; p < 0.001). The effect on wayfinding performance (SMD = 0.992) was considerably larger compared to driving navigation performance (SMD = 0.246) and spatial knowledge performance (SMD = 0.274). The mean age significantly positively affected the effectiveness of AR technology (Z = 2.670; p < 0.05). The results promote the development and application of AR technology and increase its adoption amongst the elderly.