Using virtual reality technologies in television broadcasting: Towards a new interactive media experience

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of integrating Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies into television broadcasting, exploring their role in reshaping the audience experience in the Arab media context. While immersive journalism using VR has gained global attention through institutions such as BBC and The New York Times (2025), Arab studies remain limited, creating a significant research gap. The research problem stems from the absence of a comprehensive framework that connects technical applications, audience perception, and ethical challenges in Arab television broadcasting. To address this, the study adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology, combining literature review, content analysis of Arab and global case studies (e.g., Sudan TV, Al Shorouk, Emirati channels, BBC, NYT), surveys targeting university students, and semi-structured interviews with Arab journalists. Expected findings indicate that VR enhances audience engagement and credibility (University youth study, 2022; Al Jazeera, 2025), reduces production costs compared to traditional studios (Sudan and Al Shorouk study, 2016), yet faces technical and ethical challenges (Sirkkunen et al., 2021; Hardee, 2021). The study contributes to bridging the gap in Arab media research and offers practical recommendations for gradual adoption of VR/AR technologies, positioning Arab broadcasting within global trends of immersive journalism and extended reality (XR).