Apple's intelligence makes its debut in Vision Pro, but it's the new iOS app that could capture attention.
Artificial intelligence has been integrated into the expensive virtual reality device.
Apple has released a new update for the visionOS 2.4 operating system, which introduces the company's artificial intelligence into its Vision Pro devices. This update, available today as a beta for developers, initially only supports U.S. English. With this move, Apple aims to strengthen the position of its spatial computing platform in light of the impending arrival of Project Moohan, a mixed-reality device developed by Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm, which will integrate Google Gemini as a central component of the experience.
The introduction of these new features also addresses the concerns of Vision Pro owners, who were questioning why their most advanced consumer technology lacked features already present in various models of iPhone 16, iPads, and MacBooks. Although the update does not include all the features expected in iOS 18.4, it does provide more options than those offered at the initial launch of artificial intelligence on iPhones.
Among the main novelties are writing tools in the native Vision Pro applications, the use of Genmojis, access to ChatGPT, and a feature called Image Playground. Additionally, these functions integrate with the native capabilities of the Vision Pro, using voice commands and gestures to enhance interaction.
However, the update does not present any significant news regarding Siri, which may disappoint some users. Nonetheless, Apple's openness to artificial intelligence in Vision Pro suggests that more updates are on the horizon. It is reasonable to expect that the Siri features present on the iPhone 16 with iOS 18.4 will eventually also arrive on Vision Pro.
With the new update, users will be able to use voice commands to request changes in writing, such as "make it friendlier," and receive assistance for rewriting and correcting texts. Image Playground will be integrated into the Messages app, similar to what happens in iOS, and Smart Replies will be able to generate contextual responses based on the content of a message thread.
Apple is also working to improve the connection between iPhone and Vision Pro. One of the most interesting additions is the Vision Pro app on iOS, which acts as a platform to access new content and spatial experiences, as well as to perform remote actions, such as adding movies to wish lists or downloading apps. This app will be automatically installed with iOS 18.4 if the system detects a Vision Pro.
Additionally, the Guest mode on Vision Pro has received improvements, making it easier to share the device. When a guest uses the headset, the owner receives a notification on their iPhone or iPad to enable access and select the apps to share.
Furthermore, a new application called Spatial Gallery has been introduced, offering curated spatial content, including photos, videos, and panoramas from various genres such as sports, entertainment, and travel. Undoubtedly, these updates are part of an effort by Apple to allow Vision Pro to compete more effectively with the products that Google, Samsung, Meta, and others will release, although the high price tag of $3,499.99 for the device remains a consideration for consumers.
