At WWDC this week, Apple previewed an updated Vision Pro MR headset framework. At the event, Apple showcased visionOS 26, which aims to bring new spatial computing abilities and AI integrations to the device.
Apple is introducing its Widgets system to the Vision Pro, allowing device wearers to access services such as Clock, Weather, Music, and Photos. Moreover, Users can personalise what Widgets exist in their spatial environments, including those from compatible iOS and iPadOS apps, with additional developer tools via WidgetKit. Moreover, Spatial Safaru browsing allows web developers to embed 3D models directly into web pages.
The new Vision Pro update will also include an update to the personas system that “exhibit[s] striking expressiveness and sharpness,” according to Apple. This consists of a side profile view and consideration for Persona personalisation, including hair, eyelashes, and skin tone.
The spatial photo is also refreshed with a new AI algorithm and computational depth to allow Vision Pro users to view 3D scenes from various perspectives, with additional abilities for the native playback of 180-degree, 360-degree, and wide field-of-view content from platforms like Insta360, GoPro, and Canon.
With new system updates also comes new hardware integrations. The latest and improved Vision Pro OS supports PlayStation VR2 Sense controller, a big move for the hardware initially pitched as controllerless—another hardware integration by the way of Logitech Muse, an accessory for spatial input.
Mike Rockwell, Apple’s vice president of the Vision Products Group, added:
Apple Vision Pro has defined what’s possible in this new era of spatial computing, and with visionOS 26, we’re excited to push the boundaries even further.
On the Enterprise Side
However, the Vision Pro is still very much being sold as a productivity tool, following its first reveal last year, and in the new OS, fresh business tools are coming to the device.
VisionOS 26 is enabling new ways to interact with workplace tools like Spatial Analogue via its Logitech Muse and Dassault Systèmes’ 3DLive app that allows users to visualise 3D designs in person and with remote colleagues.
Rockwell also added:
With brand-new ways for Vision Pro owners to connect, explore, work together, and enjoy content, we’re incredibly excited for users to enjoy features like apps and widgets that they can arrange in their spaces, spatial scenes that offer a brand-new viewing experience for their photos, and dramatically enhanced Personas on Vision Pro.
Additionally, enterprise-focused APIs, such as the new Protected Content API, ensure that only authorised individuals can access confidential materials like medical records or business forecasts, while preventing copying, screenshots, and screen sharing.
New team device sharing allows organisations to set up and manage a shared pool of devices easily. This feature enables professional users to securely store eye and hand data, vision prescriptions, and accessibility settings on their iPhone running iOS 26, making it simple to transfer this information to another Vision Pro.
Additionally, visionOS 26 introduces enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities, including updates to Image Playground. It also supports new languages: French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. It also includes English language support for users in Australia, Canada, India, Singapore, and the UK.
All these features are now available for testing through the Apple Developer Program, with a full rollout planned for the future.
