macOS Applications Acquire Ability to Display 3D Visuals on Apple Vision Pro, Suggesting Possibilities for Connected Headset Usage

macOS Applications Acquire Ability to Display 3D Visuals on Apple Vision Pro, Suggesting Possibilities for Connected Headset Usage

macOS Applications Acquire Ability to Display 3D Visuals on Apple Vision Pro, Suggesting Possibilities for Connected Headset Usage


Apple’s WWDC25 developer sessions are filled with captivating insights that didn’t make it into the keynote or the State of the Union presentation. One session in particular, briefly showcased during [What’s new in SwiftUI](https://developer.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2025/256/), may provide the initial clues about the future direction of visionOS.

A few months back, *Bloomberg*’s Mark Gurman [reported](https://9to5mac.com/2025/04/13/apple-vision-pro-refresh-details-cheaper-lighter/) that Apple was preparing two new Vision Pro headsets. One is intended to be lighter and more budget-friendly than the existing model, whereas the other is rumored to be a tethered device:

>The second headset in development could be even more interesting. Back in January, I detailed that Apple had halted development on augmented reality glasses that would connect to a Mac. Instead, they are now developing a Vision Pro that plugs into a Mac. The distinction between the two concepts lies in the degree of immersion. The canceled device featured transparent lenses; the one still being developed will adopt the same method as the Vision Pro.

Although there is no formal announcement regarding the launch timeline of these products, Apple may already be establishing the framework for that tethered version.

This is because, for the first time, macOS Tahoe 26 applications will be capable of showcasing 3D immersive content directly on Apple Vision Pro, utilizing a novel scene type named `RemoteImmersiveSpace`.

## From macOS directly to visionOS

This new feature was mentioned as part of SwiftUI’s advancing support for spatial computing, and it leverages Apple’s introduction of the `CompositorServices` framework to macOS Tahoe 26.

This framework allows Mac applications operating on macOS Tahoe 26 to deliver stereo 3D content straight into Vision Pro environments, without the necessity for a distinct visionOS version.

By utilizing `RemoteImmersiveSpace`, developers are now able to produce immersive visuals that accommodate input events, such as taps and gestures, alongside hover effects for spatial interaction, effectively enabling their desktop applications to expand into a completely immersive environment. This can all be accomplished in SwiftUI, with enhanced integration into Metal for those seeking comprehensive rendering control.

Additionally, the SwiftUI team has presented robust spatial layout and interaction APIs, allowing developers to create volumetric UIs, facilitate object manipulation, such as picking up a virtual water bottle, and utilize scene snapping behaviors for more dynamic interfaces.

In practical terms, this means a macOS app could replicate full 3D experiences, from architectural walkthroughs to scientific visualizations, and execute them live on Vision Pro, powered by the Mac.

The outcome? A significantly reduced barrier for macOS developers eager to explore Vision Pro or begin crafting for a future where spatial computing could become commonplace.

For further technical insights, explore Apple’s “What’s New in SwiftUI” [session](https://developer.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2025/256/) and the [documentation](https://developer.apple.com/documentation/updates/swiftui) available on the Apple Developer website.