As of iOS 17.2, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max can record video in Apple's new 'spatial video' format, playable in full quality on Vision Pro and in normal 2D on other screens.
When Apple introduced the Vision Pro headset, capable of handling regular 2D and 3D video on a virtual screen, the company also outlined plans for more immersive spatial videos that can play on a virtual screen or fully surround and immerse the viewer.
Also read: Apple Vision Pro features a home cinema mode, revives 3D movies
Spatial video on a virtual screen inside Apple Vision Pro. Photo: Apple
After installing the latest iOS 17.2 update, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max can now record spatial videos designed for the virtual screen.
- "iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max feature the most powerful camera systems we’ve ever developed, including the best video quality in any smartphone," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's SVP of Worldwide Marketing. "And now, we’re setting a new bar for what’s possible, enabling users to record special moments just as they happened. Spatial videos are magical, and we can’t wait for users to experience them on Apple Vision Pro early next year."
1080p SDR and 30fps
The first generation of spatial videos shot on iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max has limitations in terms of quality.
These videos are captured in 1080p at 30fps in SDR (Standard Dynamic Range), encoded in HEVC.
To activate spatial video on iPhone 15 Pro, you must navigate to Settings -> Camera -> Formats -> Spatial Video for Apple Vision Pro: Enable.
Spatial video uses the Main and Ultra Wide cameras on iPhone 15 Pro. Photo: Apple
Spatial video can also be played back on other devices as normal 2D video, but the videos take up more significantly space and must be shot in landscape mode (hallelujah!). One minute of spatial video takes up approximately 130MB, according to Apple.
- "On iPhone and other devices, spatial videos appear as regular, 2D videos and can be watched or shared just like any other video," explained Apple. "Spatial videos come to life on Apple Vision Pro. With iCloud, users will be able to access their entire library in the Photos app and view their videos at life-size scale with brilliant color and spectacular detail"
Waiting for Apple Vision Pro
Users will later be able to capture spatial video directly on the Apple Vision Pro. Technical details for video shot directly on the headset will be announced later.
For now, Apple has only detailed spatial video recording for iPhone. It has yet to announce partnerships with camera makers and has yet to detail plans for movies or series shot in, or games created in, its immersive spatial video format.
Apple Vision Pro will cost $3499 and launch only in the US initially (early 2024).
How spatial video works with Apple Vision Pro. Video: Apple
