what's going on with visionos

Apple has introduced several exciting updates and features for visionOS, the operating system for Apple Vision Pro, at WWDC 2024. Here are some key highlights:

1. Developer Enthusiasm and App Availability:

   • Since the announcement of Apple Vision Pro, there has been significant enthusiasm from the developer community. Within the first few days of availability, over 1000 apps were already on the App Store. Developers have been able to recompile their iOS and iPadOS apps to run on visionOS and then extend them for spatial computing (Platforms State of the Union).

2. HealthKit Integration:

   • VisionOS supports immersive health experiences. For example, users can enter an immersive space to reflect on their feelings and save this data to HealthKit. The system also includes a "Guest User" feature, allowing others to try out Apple Vision Pro while preserving the owner's data and privacy (Get started with HealthKit in visionOS).

3. Design Principles:

   • VisionOS is designed with people at the center, ensuring comfortable interactions. Developers are encouraged to find their app's "key moment" optimized for visionOS, such as the mindfulness app's gentle pulsing flower that encourages breathing and focus (Design great visionOS apps).

4. Device Management:

   • VisionOS 1.1 introduced MDM (Mobile Device Management) for Vision Pro, supporting both device and user enrollment. This allows IT teams to manage Vision Pro devices similarly to iPhones and iPads (What’s new in device management).

5. Spatial Web Optimization:

   • VisionOS supports natural input using eyes, hands, and voice. Developers can inspect and debug web content in visionOS using tools like WebInspector, which can be displayed in a virtual Mac environment (Optimize for the spatial web).

6. Game Development:

   • Developers can bring their iOS or iPadOS games to visionOS by using the visionOS SDK. This involves adding Apple Vision as a supported destination and potentially moving to a low-level texture API for better control (Bring your iOS or iPadOS game to visionOS).

7. Advanced Spatial Features:

   • VisionOS 2 introduces richer spatial computing capabilities, such as enhanced scene understanding, room anchors, and object tracking APIs. These features allow for more creative and interactive app experiences (Platforms State of the Union).

These updates highlight Apple's commitment to enhancing the visionOS platform and providing developers with the tools and frameworks needed to create innovative spatial computing experiences.