Smart glasses for remote assistance: analysing usability and optimal user characteristics among young adults with and without autism

Purpose: Young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face challenges achieving independence and require ongoing support from caregivers. Smart glasses can develop skills and provide remote support, but user discomfort suggests further investigation into their usability and suitability. Materials and methods: This study assesses smart glasses’ usability, comparing young adults (20–34 years) with (n = 22) and without (n = 22) ASD performing an online shopping task (OST). It explores correlations between usability and users’ cognitive, sensory and emotional characteristics. Assessments included demographics, Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile, Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult (BRIEF-A) and Depression and Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS) and post-task, the Usefulness, Satisfaction and Ease-of-Use (USE) and Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ). Results: Findings showed good usability for both groups (PSSUQ M = 2.82; USE M = 5.29; SD = 0.81). The ASD group showed more difficulty in the ease-of-use category. Sensory characteristic correlations were found between the USE usability score and low registration (r = −0.40, p = 0.01) and between the PSSUQ and low registration (r = 0.34, p < 0.05), seeking (r = −0.35, p < 0.05) and sensitivity (r = 0.35, p < 0.05). Correlations were found between PSSUQ and BRIEF-A for cognitive (r = 0.36, p < 0.05) and PSSUQ and DASS for emotional (r = 0.30, p = 0.05) characteristics. Cluster analysis identified a subgroup (n = 19; 43.2%) more suited for smart glasses, with higher seeking behaviours and executive functions, lower sensitivities and negative emotional states. Conclusions: Findings highlight smart glasses’ potential for providing remote support.