For mixed reality applications, where reality and virtual reality are spatially merged and aligned in interactive real-time, we propose a voxel representation as a rendering and interaction method for the near future. We show that voxels?gap-less volumetric pixels in a regular grid in space?allow for an actual user experience of a mixed reality environment. We demonstrate that a low fidelity voxel representation can lead to sufficient levels of presence and co-presence.
We argue the case for voxels by (1) conceptually defining and illustrating voxel-based mixed reality, (2) presenting a low resolution and fully functioning prototype, (3) empirically exploring the user experience, (4) describing the computational feasibility, and (5) finally discussing future directions for voxel-based mixed reality. If everything is based on voxels, even if coarse, visual coherence is achieved inherently.