iOS 17.2 adds the ability to capture spatial video with the iPhone 15 Pro models to view later in stereoscopic 3D on Apple’s $3500 Vision Pro headset.
Spatial video uses stereoscopic 3D | Image: Apple
The Vision Pro can capture images separately for each eye, creating an illusion of depth by mimicking how our brain perceives depth. Apple calls this “spatial video,” which is basically very similar to stereoscopic 3D imaging.
The company said folks will be able to capture spatial videos using their iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max and view them on the headset when it launches in early 2024, and now this feature has appeared in the iOS 17.2 software.
iOS 17.2: Capture spatial video on iPhone
Only the iPhone 15 Pros can capture spatial video because the rear camera lenses on these handsets are spaced apart just the right amount to simulate the human interocular distance.
Such a setup allows the ultra-wide and main cameras to capture separate images for each eye that immerse you in three dimensions when viewed through the headset. To enable spatial video capture, go to Settings > Camera and switch on the Spatial Video for Apple Vision Pro option under Video Capture.
You must capture spatial footage in landscape orientation.
Spatial video resolution restricted to 1080p
The feature’s description confirms that spatial video capture on the iPhone 15 Pros is restricted to 1080p resolution and 30 frames per second. According to 9to5Mac, one minute of spatial video takes about 130MB of storage. Apple has yet to define a file format for spatial photos and videos.
You’ll need to be patient before trying this feature out because iOS 17.2 is currently in testing and will launch publicly in a few weeks. iOS 17.2 will synchronize spatial media using the Photos app for easy access on the Vision Pro headset. It’s unclear whether spatial video will be playable on other Apple devices like the iPhone, iPad or Mac in any way.