• Patent shows head pose changes could control device settings.
• Potential uses include adjusting volume or screen brightness.
• Expanded head gestures may improve accessibility.
• visionOS 3 update and affordable Vision Pro variant in development.

A newly discovered patent from Apple, filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, has revealed a use case in which the Vision Pro headset is controlled by head movements, potentially broadening its accessibility and usability.

Some functionality of this head-tracking feature already resides on the Vision Pro and currently allows users to move an on-screen pointer with their head.

This new patent filing proposes more sophisticated and practical usage cases for this technology.

Expanding Vision Pro Head Gesture Controls

According to the patent, Apple is investigating ways to use head pose changes to control various device settings.

“Based on head pose changes, the scalar quantity of the device setting and the position of the indicator on the slider may be updated. The direction of movement may correspond to the direction of movement of the indicator in the slider,” the patent reads.

As per the description, it looks like the technology was developed for a “head-mounted device,” which solidifies its connection to the Vision Pro.

While specifics aren’t provided, this could potentially be used for tasks like adjusting volume or screen brightness.

Accessibility Implications

One of the most exciting aspects of this potential feature has to do with what it may allow in terms of accessibility.

Expanded head gesture functionality for users who may struggle with hand controls could provide a far greater measure of inclusivity in how one interacts with the Vision Pro.

It should be noted that not all patented technologies work their way into final products.

Apple does, like many other tech companies, file a good deal of patents just to protect the potential innovations.

This does, however, reflect the firm’s ongoing research and development of the Vision Pro platform.

Future of visionOS and Vision Pro

While this head gesture patent speaks to possible near-term improvements, Apple is reportedly working on longer-term developments for its mixed reality ecosystem.

• visionOS 3: A major update to the Vision Pro’s operating system is said to be coming as soon as 2025.
• Affordable Vision Pro: While there could be a second generation of it, some reports have claimed Apple is working more on the more affordable version of the Vision Pro. Priced around $1,500, the device may be launched as far away as late 2025.
• Display Changes: Early rumors suggest the budget-friendly Vision Pro could have a bigger screen, but at a reduced resolution to its current offering.

FAQs

What new functionality is suggested by Apple’s patent for the Vision Pro?

The patent suggests using head pose changes to control various device settings, such as adjusting volume or screen brightness, through head gestures.

How could the new head gesture controls improve accessibility?

Expanded head gesture functionality could provide a more inclusive way for users with difficulty using hand controls to interact with the Vision Pro.

Does this patent guarantee the new features will be included in Vision Pro?

Not necessarily. While the patent provides insight into Apple’s research, not all patented technologies make it into final products.

What are Apple’s future plans for the Vision Pro platform?

Apple is reportedly working on visionOS 3 for a 2025 release and developing a more budget-friendly Vision Pro variant, potentially launching in late 2025 with a target price of around $1,500.

What are the expected features of the affordable Vision Pro?

The affordable Vision Pro might feature a larger display with a lower resolution compared to the current model, aiming to provide a more budget-friendly option.

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