what is visionOS ?

Asked on 07/27/2024

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VisionOS is Apple's operating system designed specifically for the Apple Vision Pro, a device that enables spatial computing. It builds on the foundation of macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, incorporating familiar tools and frameworks like SwiftUI, RealityKit, and ARKit to create immersive and interactive experiences.

Key features and capabilities of visionOS include:

  1. Immersive Spaces: VisionOS allows users to enter immersive spaces where other apps are hidden, and the surrounding pass-through dims to provide a sense of separation from the workspace. This is particularly useful for focused activities like reflecting on calendar events or using HealthKit (Get started with HealthKit in visionOS).

  2. Spatial Computing: VisionOS supports spatial computing, enabling developers to create apps that interact with the physical world around the user. This includes detecting planes in all orientations, room anchors, and object tracking (Platforms State of the Union).

  3. Enterprise APIs: VisionOS includes a set of enterprise APIs that enhance collaboration, communication, and productivity in business environments. These APIs support new spatial experiences and guided work activities (Introducing enterprise APIs for visionOS).

  4. Device Management: VisionOS 1.1 introduced device management capabilities similar to those used for iPhone and iPad, supporting both device and user enrollment (What’s new in device management).

  5. Development Tools: Developers can easily recompile their iOS and iPadOS apps to run on visionOS and extend them for spatial computing. This process is facilitated by the visionOS SDK, which supports rendering content using various APIs (Bring your iOS or iPadOS game to visionOS).

  6. User Experience: VisionOS is designed to be comfortable and intuitive, with interactions centered around the user. Apps are encouraged to find their "key moment" that is optimized for visionOS, creating unique and delightful experiences (Design great visionOS apps).

Overall, visionOS represents a significant step forward in spatial computing, offering developers a robust platform to create innovative and immersive applications.

what is visionOS ? | Ask WWDC