Yesterday was an intense day for Apple. Besides sending out invitations to the Wonderlust event where we’ll see the new iPhone 15, the Cupertino company released beta versions for all operating systems. That includes visionOS, which reaches its third beta and brings us a bunch of previously unknown details about the Apple Vision Pro system.
While the release primarily caters to developers who already have a Vision Pro Developer Kit, it’s also available for the Vision Pro Simulator as part of Xcode. It’s in this environment where we can uncover a significant list of changes, improvements, redesigns, and gain a better understanding of some features we were already familiar with but didn’t delve too deeply into.
More about Optic ID
One of the most significant additions to the Apple Vision Pro is Optic ID, an authentication technology based on iris scanning. This feature resembles Face ID and Touch ID on the iPhone and iPad but obviously focuses on a completely different biometric trait.
In previous betas, we learned that Optic ID would require a double press on the top button to confirm App Store purchases or make payments with Apple Pay using the Vision Pro. Just like on the iPhone, iPad, or Mac, the system deactivates biometrics as a form of access in certain situations. A clear example is if it hasn’t been used for more than 48 consecutive hours.
Now, a new code string has been discovered indicating that Optic ID will always be available if the paired iPhone is nearby and has been recently unlocked. This mechanism will simplify identification and prevent the need to manually input the passcode. If necessary, though, the system will prompt us with “Enter Passcode. Try tapping directly on the keyboard to enter it.”
New accessibility options
One of Apple’s pillars across all products and systems is accessibility, and visionOS certainly reflects that. In addition to the primary eye-based device control, we now know that Apple will offer some alternative options.
According to the beta, the Vision Pro can be controlled by bringing both hands together, instead of having to touch the thumb with another finger. There will also be an option to track a single eye, which could be useful for individuals with visual impairments.
Environments on FaceTime
In terms of functionality, while using the Vision Pro, we’ll have the option to choose from a range of immersive virtual scenarios called “Environments,” which can also be used during FaceTime calls.
Not all of them will be downloaded at all times to optimize storage, so when we initiate a FaceTime call with a selected scenario that not all participants have downloaded, the system will notify us with “All participants in the FaceTime call must download this scenario first.”
System icons update
The interface aesthetics have also received an update in this beta. Some of the system icons have changed, including a new icon for the folder of compatible apps on the home screen. This new design is more generic and aligns with the marketing images of Vision Pro presented at WWDC 2023.
Mouse support in future updates
While Apple has mentioned that we’ll be able to connect a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse for more precise control in certain applications, a new alert message in visionOS beta 3 indicates that mouse support won’t be available at launch.
With the release date of the Apple Vision Pro scheduled for 2024, there’s still time for Apple to experiment with changes and even reverse some of them. The feedback from developers who are already testing the device will also be something to consider.
In any case, if we’re not among the fortunate ones with a Vision Pro in our hands, beta by beta and thanks to the Xcode simulator, we’re discovering small changes and improvements to track the development’s progress. As we await its arrival in the market, we’ll see what future versions have in store for us.
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