The iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro (Max) and newer can activate a special function for recording spatial video. Since iOS 18, these devices can also take spatial photos. These are photos and videos with depth that entirely to their entitlement to an Apple Vision Pro.
Maybe it doesn’t help you immediately, but if you have plans to purchase an Apple computer in the future, it might be worth considering to start with spatial photos and videos. As a result, the spatial media will immediately be available on the Vision.
Suitable for iPhone 15 Pro
The iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro (Max) and newer contain an advanced camera systems with three lenses and Lidar scanner so that recording with depth is possible. Naturally, older Pro models also have a camera system with three lenses, but only the latest iPhone can make spatial videos. This is mainly due to the A17 Pro chip and newer that can easily perform this complex task.
What is spatial photos and video?
With spatial photos and videos you can record memorable moments in three dimensions, so that you can later relive them in all glory with Apple Vision Pro. The photo or video then gets extra depth which can be compared with a 3D film and ultimately leads to a special experience.
Spatial videos are in 1080p with 30 images per second and standard dynamic range. Thanks to the advanced software video techniques and HEVC compression, the file size remains compact.
Spatial photography and filming with an iPhone
Recording spatial videos and taking spatial photos with an iPhone is just as simple as photographing and recording a normal video.
- Open the camera app
- Wipe to spatial mode
- Tap the camera button for spatial photo or the film button for spatial video
- Tap the shutter button or recording button to take a photo or start a video recording.
For optimum results, perform the following steps:
- Keep your iPhone quiet and straight.
- Install your subject 1 to 2.5 meters away from the camera.
- Provide clear, even ambient light.
The iPhone now records moving images or takes the photo with the main and ultra-wide angle camera and sets the image range of the ultra-wide angle camera on that of the main camera. The recordings of both cameras end up in one photo or video file.
View spatial videos
All spatial videos and photos end up in the album ‘Spatial’ in the photos app and are synchronized via iCloud with all your devices. A spatial video or photo is displayed on iPhone and other devices as a regular 2D video. Of course you can also share this with other users in apps such as messages or WhatsApp.
With Apple Vision Pro, spatial videos really come to life. If you use iCloud, your entire library is in the photos app and you can view your spatial videos in the most beautiful colors and with an incredible amount of detail. On Apple Vision Pro you can choose whether you see a spatial video in a window or, on the contrary, projected extra large. In the latter case you are immediately in the middle of the situation that you had spatially captured, such as a birthday or an outing with the whole family.