Apple has launched visionOS 26, the newest version of its spatial operating system tailored for the Apple Vision Pro. While this release does not bring a sweeping redesign like certain earlier versions, it does introduce several notable improvements that users will appreciate.
A key feature of visionOS 26 is the addition of spatial widgets. Users can now affix a variety of widgets, including photos, weather updates, and calendar entries, directly within their surroundings. These widgets blend effortlessly into the user’s environment and are retained by the Vision Pro, ensuring a customized experience even when users exit the area.
Developers are anticipated to design their own applications featuring spatial widgets, broadening the capabilities beyond just system apps.
Another significant enhancement is the updated personas. The latest personas in visionOS 26 are more articulate and vivid, providing a more captivating visual representation during user interactions.
The update also promotes shared experiences among Vision Pro owners. Whether viewing a 3D film, engaging in a spatial game, or collaborating on a supported application, users can now partake in these activities together, with their personas visible in the shared experience—previously a feature limited to FaceTime.
Moreover, visionOS 26 introduces spatial scenes, which leverage a new generative AI algorithm to improve the depth and immersion of images. This capability extends beyond images, enabling users to experience spatial scenes in Safari, the Spatial Gallery app, and various third-party applications, like Zillow, where users can explore lifelike scenes of properties.
Other significant features in visionOS 26 encompass support for PS VR2 controllers for gaming, Logitech Muse support for spatial drawing, a fresh Jupiter environment, native playback for 180 and 360-degree content, a revamped control center, phone call relay from iPhone, folders in home view, and additional languages for Apple Intelligence.
For those thinking about acquiring an Apple Vision Pro, it might be prudent to hold off, as there are rumors of an upcoming version featuring an M4 or M5 chip potentially debuting in October, possibly available in a new Space Black color option.
