Abstract: The present technology provides a more natural audio experience in a virtual world. In particular, the present technology provides an inner cone around a local player where audio sources within the inner cone are presented at full volume and an outer cone where audio sources outside the outer cone are presented at a minimum volume, or not at all. Audio sources that originate between the inner cone and outer cone are scaled based on their distance between the inner cone and outer cone. The present technology also provides a spatial aspect by shaping the inner cone and outer cone based on the forward vector of the local player so that more sounds are audible that are in front of the local player and less sounds behind the local player are audible.

Abstract: Loading content on a screen in a structured manner in accordance with embodiments of the invention can provide a smoother user experience by simulating progress with visual cues. Depending on network bandwidth available to a control device, load times for displaying elements on the graphical user interface of a control device can vary from imperceptible (nearly instantaneous) to a perceived lag where a user may lose patience. Embodiments of the invention utilize gradual staging and progressive loading to reduce the perception of delay and create a more pleasing, less harsh experience for a user no matter longer or shorter load times.