Our paper “Sitting, Chatting, Waiting: Influence of Loading Times on Mobile Instant Messaging QoE” got presented at the 16th International Conference on Quality of Multimedia Experience (QoMEX). The paper examines the relationship between loading times and user experience (QoE) in mobile instant messaging applications and shows that longer loading times reduce user acceptance and satisfaction, although they do not directly influence QoE ratings.

Abstract:

This paper explores the relationship between loading times and Quality of Experience (QoE) in Mobile Instant Messaging (MIM) applications. Using a web application that mimics MIM interfaces, we conducted a QoE study in which participants engaged with a virtual chat partner. We controlled image loading times during chatting and evaluated their impact on QoE, annoyance, and acceptance ratings. Although the results show no difference in the QoE ratings, they clearly show that longer delays lead to greater annoyance and lower user acceptance. These findings underscore the importance for MIM app providers to minimize loading times in order to increase user satisfaction and retention.