Highlights
Eye-Scrolling Feature in Apple’s Vision Pro Headset
Apple is set to introduce a revolutionary eye-scrolling feature for its Vision Pro headset, allowing users to navigate through content by simply moving their eyes. A report from Bloomberg, authored by Mark Gurman, indicates that this innovative feature is currently being tested as part of visionOS 3, the forthcoming significant software upgrade for Apple’s mixed-reality device priced at £3,499. The official launch is anticipated during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), starting on 9 June.
The Vision Pro headset already includes advanced eye-tracking technology, permitting users to select items merely by looking at them and pinching their fingers. The introduction of the eye-scrolling feature aims to advance this capability by eliminating the necessity of hand gestures, providing a smoother, hands-free user experience. This update promises to make activities such as reading, scrolling through menus, or browsing applications considerably more intuitive and less physically demanding.
Expanding Usability Across Apps
Apple plans to incorporate the eye-scrolling feature across all native Vision Pro applications and will offer tools for third-party developers to integrate this function into their own software. The overarching goal is to enhance usability and showcase the Vision Pro’s extensive capabilities, especially as the current sales figures for the headset remain modest.
Restructuring Within Apple
This announcement coincides with an internal reorganisation at Apple, where the Vision Pro software team has merged with the Siri division. This strategic move suggests Apple’s intention to integrate voice and visual interface technologies in potential updates.
New Accessibility Features in visionOS
In addition to the eye-scrolling capability, Apple is also focusing on expanding accessibility features within visionOS. New functionalities include magnifying both real-world and digital content via the Vision Pro’s external camera, as well as producing live, machine-learning-driven descriptions of the surrounding environment. A redesigned VoiceOver feature will assist users in identifying objects, reading documents, and comprehending their surroundings more effectively.
While Apple has not publicly addressed these updates yet, the anticipated WWDC event is expected to provide further insights into the company’s vision for hands-free and accessible computing. Keep an eye on Tech Today for the latest updates regarding these exciting developments.