Physical Music Albums in the Digital Era: Exploring Experiential Value Through the Integration of AR

Ena Fumihira; Andrew Johnston

Physical Music Albums in the Digital Era: Exploring Experiential Value Through the Integration of AR
Image credit: Ena Fumihira; Andrew Johnston

Abstract:

This study explores physical music albums in the digital age, as well as the creation of new music experiences through the integration of Augmented Reality (AR) into physical albums. An online survey was conducted to examine the differences in experiences between digital and physical albums, and this informed the development of a physical music album incorporating AR. We provided 8 K-POP fans, who engage with physical albums more frequently than fans of other genres, the opportunity to test existing AR-integrated albums and a new prototype featuring AR packaging animations, multiplayer virtual concerts, and interactive photo features. The results underscored the importance of understanding and respecting fan culture when using AR. The results suggest that, compared to digital albums, physical albums derive significant experiential value from traditional supplementary materials such as booklets and lyric cards. However, AR has the potential as a complementary new material that provides users with novel experiences. This work leads to a reconsideration of Walter Benjamin’s concept of “aura,” which critiques the reproducibility of art.