Apple has launched a recent beta version of its iOS 17 operating system that includes the ability to record spatial videos with the iPhone 15 Pro and display them using the upcoming Vision Pro mixed reality glasses.
Users who have access to and installed iOS 17.2 Beta 2 on their devices can now use the dual cameras on the top of the iPhone 15 Pro to record videos with a 3D effect when held sideways.
There's a new option in the Settings app called “Vision Pro Spatial Video.” Apple explains that this option enables 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second.
“Capture deep spatial videos to display in the Photos app with Vision Pro,” the company says. For best results, keep your iPhone level and steady while recording. It runs at 1080p and 30fps. Record videos. One minute of recording time is required. “About 130MB of storage space.”
Once activated, users will see the new My Location option in the video interface of the camera app. The Vision Pro mode icon in the lower left corner indicates this option.
“Users can capture precious 3D moments with Vision Pro and relive those memories with incredible depth,” Apple said. “Every spatial photo and video transports the user to a moment in time, such as a party with friends or a family reunion.”
Users can now record spatial videos with iPhone 15 Pro, even if the “spatial” dimension is not visible. When played through the Photos app, the video looks like a regular 1080p video shot on an iPhone. However, you can start recording spatial videos now and have a library of content to check out when Vision Pro is released.
Apple announced in September that the iPhone 15 Pro can capture spatial video for its Vision Pro mixed reality glasses. When the Vision Pro launches in early 2024, you'll be able to watch these space videos through headphones. You can also use Vision to record spatial videos. Once you get the headphones next year, the Pro itself will be fine.