How danmaku features in video sharing platforms induce user co-experience through pseudo-synchronicity
Abstract
Video Sharing Platforms (VSPs) are increasingly incorporating a novel feature that enables users to embedded comments directly into the video timeline while viewing the video. Known as ‘danmaku’, this feature, when combined with users’ social and hedonic needs, generates the pseudo-synchronicity affordance where users feel as if they are watching videos with others simultaneously. Drawing on the needs-affordance-feature perspective and social information processing theory, we explain why users use the danmaku feature, and the following social, affective and cognitive outcomes, through the pseudo-synchronicity affordance and users’ viewing co-experience. We focus on three outcomes: enjoyment (affective), distraction (cognitive) and sense of temporary community (social). The study contributes to the literature by examining the novel affordance and by explaining users’ social experience through use of the danmaku feature. It also has practical implications for VSP companies and users.
Recommended Citation
Shi, Yan and Tarafdar, Monideepa, "How danmaku features in video sharing platforms induce user co-experience through pseudo-synchronicity" (2025). SIGHCI 2024 Proceedings. 28.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/sighci2024/28
