Today, Apple introduced iOS 17.2, bringing an exciting capability to users of the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max—the ability to capture spatial videos. This innovative feature enables users to record videos in three dimensions, providing a unique way to relive cherished memories and significant moments through the upcoming mixed-reality headset, Apple Vision Pro.
To achieve three-dimensional video recording, the iPhone utilizes both its primary and ultrawide cameras simultaneously. The resulting footage is consolidated into a single file stored in a dedicated album labeled “Spatial” within the Photos app. These spatial videos seamlessly sync across devices through iCloud, maintaining a resolution of 1080p at 30 frames per second.
Users can activate spatial video recording in the Settings menu by toggling on “Spatial Video for Apple Vision Pro” in the Camera section under Formats. Apple recommends holding the iPhone in landscape orientation for optimal results during recording.
While spatial videos can be enjoyed on all iPhones and compatible devices, they will appear as regular 2D videos, offering a versatile viewing experience. Apple’s senior vice president of worldwide marketing, Greg Joswiak, describes these videos as “magical” and “setting a new bar for what’s possible.”
Joswiak emphasizes the powerful camera systems in the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, claiming they boast the best video quality in any smartphone. This new feature not only enhances the user experience but also serves as a key differentiator for Apple’s premium iPhones, establishing stronger connections with users ahead of the anticipated AR/VR headset launch next year.
In addition to the spatial video recording, iOS 17.2 introduces the Journal app, a redesigned Apple TV app, and a convenient method for accessing Health app data via Siri. This comprehensive release further enhances the overall functionality and user experience of Apple devices.
