visionOS 26 is the forthcoming software upgrade for Apple Vision Pro. This marks the second significant software enhancement for Apple’s spatial computing device since its debut early last year. This update seems to truly unleash some of the potential of the prohibitively costly headset.
Here are five visionOS 26 capabilities that will enhance Apple Vision Pro and might even justify the retail cost for those who can afford one.
5 new features in Apple Vision Pro with visionOS 26
Personas are functional now: After a year and a half, Apple is prepared to present Apple Vision Pro Personas as a fully realized feature. In visionOS 26, this feature has shed its “beta” label. Apple mentions that the “entirely new Personas now exhibit impressive expressiveness and clarity, providing a complete side profile view, along with remarkably precise hair, eyelashes, and complexion.”
Spatial Widgets: Apple is ensuring the Vision Pro harnesses the potential of Spatial Widgets. This feature in visionOS 26 allows the placement of widgets in the real world. Users can customize them with various frame thickness, colors, and depths. The most intriguing aspect of Spatial Widgets is that they remain fixed in their position between sessions.
Integration of third-party accessories: visionOS 26 finally enables Vision Pro owners to utilize third-party accessories. For gaming, users will be able to connect the PlayStation’s VR2 Sense controller. However, the lingering question is: Why isn’t the Apple Pencil Pro compatible with Vision Pro?
Shared spatial experiences: If two individuals with Vision Pro devices are in the same location, they can engage in shared spatial experiences, such as viewing a movie in 3D, playing a spatial game, or collaborating on work. This represents Apple’s approach to creating a more interconnected social experience on a device that previously felt somewhat solitary.
Spatial scenes: Lastly, one of the standout features of visionOS 26 is Spatial Scenes. Utilizing a generative AI algorithm, each photo can acquire a lifelike depth perception and be viewed from various angles. Users of Vision Pro will discover spatial scenes within the Photos app, the Spatial Gallery app, and Safari. Zillow is also adopting this technology.
visionOS 26 enhances Apple Vision Pro’s capabilities
We are still anticipating a second-generation Vision Pro or a more affordable variant, but Apple’s visionOS software is finally maturing. That said, if the company manages to make this device more budget-friendly or lighter, the software should finally serve as a compelling selling point.
