Apple Vision Pro to convert your photos into spatial photos with visionOS 2
VisionOS 2 was unveiled by Apple during the keynote session of its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2024 event. The company is introducing multiple new changes to the operating system’s interface and adding new features and gestures. The upcoming software update will also allow users to convert all regular photos in the Photos app into 3D-enabled Spatial photos. In addition, the Cupertino-based tech giant is also adding a Home Screen customization feature for Apple Vision Pro. The developer beta of visionOS 2 has been made available.
visionOS 2 can convert regular photos to spatial photos
Spatial Photos is an exclusive feature of Apple Vision Pro that lets users view photos in 3D, with added depth perception. Previously, only photos captured as spatial photos on Apple devices could see this effect. But now, with visionOS 2, users can convert any image in the Photos app into a spatial photo.
These images can also be shared with others using SharePlay in the Photos app or via spatial Persona. The company is also adding an update to Final Cut Pro that will allow creators to edit spatial videos on Mac devices to add immersive effects. Users can also share spatial videos using the Vimeo app for Vision Pro.
visionOS 2 brings new gestures
To help Vision Pro users quickly navigate to Home View and Control Center, Apple introduced two new hand gestures with visionOS 2. A simple tap of the index finger and thumb summons Home View, while turning the wrist from landscape to flat position displays the time. A tap in this position takes the user to Control Center. There are also gestures for checking battery level and adjusting volume.
visionOS 2 gets larger virtual Mac display
With the software update, Vision Pro users will get a larger Mac Virtual Display when connected to a Mac. Currently, the headset renders a single 5K-resolution screen, but the company claims that with visionOS 2, users will see an ultrawide display equivalent to two 4K monitors side by side.
Additionally, the Vision Pro now supports mouse connectivity instead of just trackpads, and a physical Magic Keyboard is displayed in a virtual environment.
Customize visionOS 2 Home Screen
Many users complained about the inability to rearrange apps on the Home Screen. Apple addresses that with visionOS 2, as users can now place app icons, including iPhone and iPad apps, wherever they want.
Additionally, users can now share their Vision Pro device with a family member, friend or colleague by adding them as a guest user, and their eye and hand data will be stored for 30 days.
Other notable features in visionOS 2
- Users can now watch web videos on websites like YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon while using Safari.
- Apple TV offers multiview support for Apple Vision Pro, allowing up to five streams to be played simultaneously.
- The Mindfulness app is getting a new feature: Follow your breath. This feature shows animations and plays sounds to imitate the user’s breathing patterns.
- System-wide live captioning is coming to portable devices.
- AirPlay allows users to view content from iPhone, iPad or Mac on Vision Pro.
Notably, the visionOS 2 developer beta is currently available to eligible members of the Apple Developer Program.
