The upcoming iPhone Ultra model may feature a significant Apple Vision Pro capability, which involves the capacity to capture “spatial photos and videos” using the phone’s camera.
Recent rumors, as per a MacRumors report, suggest that this spatial photo support could enable users to create immersive 3D content using the outward-facing cameras of the smartphone.
Theoretically, this content could be uploaded and viewed on the Vision Pro headset.
Upcoming iPhone Ultra To Come With Apple Vision Pro Capability
Based on the rumors originating from an anonymous Weibo account known for accurate iPhone predictions, it seems that the iPhone Ultra itself (or whatever the future device is named) may not offer the capability to view spatial photos. Instead, one would need the headset to enjoy the immersive content on a large floating VR screen.
Notably, this rumor boldly claims that this update could redefine the expectations for the types of photos and videos a mobile phone should be able to capture. However, it might be some time before we can confirm this, as Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that the rumored iPhone Ultra (expected to be positioned above the Pro models) may not arrive until at least 2024.
What Are Spatial Cameras?
The concept of spatial photos and videos was introduced during the unveiling of the Vision Pro at WWDC 2023. The idea behind this technology is to allow people to relive significant moments in their lives, creating an experience that makes it feel as though you are present once again.
For instance, as demonstrated by Apple during its Vision Pro presentations, you could revisit your daughter’s birthday party or watch your children playing in the backyard. Apple emphasized that spatial recording is such a fundamental aspect of the Vision Pro experience that the device even includes a dedicated mechanical button on the top to activate it.
The primary challenge with recording video on a VR headset is that you are essentially recording video using a bulky headset, which is far from inconspicuous. Additionally, there is a risk of irreparable damage if you take it outdoors.
However, by incorporating the same technology into an iPhone or an iPad, these issues can be circumvented. Now, you will have the ability to discreetly capture high-quality content on a smartphone without the need for a VR headset or concerns about potential damage to expensive hardware priced at $3,499.
