Eye Tracking for Human-Computer Interaction: Challenges and Perspectives

This paper briefly discusses eye tracking technology with regard to technical constraints and application possibilities. Especially, the focus is on the use of gaze input for human-computer interaction. While in the past eye trackers were extremely expensive devices, and could be used only in few specific contexts, now they can be bought at very low prices, and have the potential to become widespread tools. As an assistive technology, eye tracking can be of great help for people who cannot easily use the hands. However, also their joint use with traditional input tools can significantly improve the quality of the communication between user and computer. Through the presentation of some applications developed at the University of Pavia, the paper will provide an overview of eye tracking potentials and their inherent challenges