Apple has announced visionOS, the operating system that will power its new Vision Pro headset, designed specifically for spatial computing. The company unveiled this operating system during the Worldwide Developers Conference 2023 or WWDC.
What is Apple’s visionOS?
VisionOS focuses on overlaying digital elements onto the real world, as demonstrated by Apple’s video showcasing icons and windows floating over physical spaces. The operating system incorporates eye tracking, allowing users to look at a search field and input text through voice commands.
Apple envisions the Vision Pro headset as both a productivity and entertainment device. It demonstrated scenarios where Safari, Messages, and Apple Music windows were displayed over a table, along with a floating keyboard. The Vision Pro can also connect to a Mac, enabling users to view their Mac’s screen within the headset.
In terms of entertainment, users can adjust the screen size and display it against different backgrounds such as in a cinema environment or in front of a mountain. The device also supports 3D movies, and Disney is working on content for it, with Disney Plus available on launch day.
Gaming is another feature of the Vision Pro, supporting game controllers and providing access to over 100 Apple Arcade titles. The device also features “EyeSight,” which allows the user’s eyes to be displayed on the outside of the headset. Apple announced a new App Store dedicated to Vision Pro apps, as well as compatibility with iPhone and iPad apps.
The launch of visionOS is a significant moment for Apple and its developers. As Apple enters the headset market, developers are expected to create apps that leverage the new platform’s capabilities. While augmented reality platforms have yet to reach critical mass, Apple aims to make visionOS a successful operating system comparable to iOS. However, its long-term success remains to be seen, as previous operating systems like watchOS have lost major apps over time.
The Vision Pro headset is scheduled to be available early next year, providing ample time for Apple and developers to create innovative applications for the platform.
