Guide: Apple Vision Pro Spatial VR on DeoVR

Apple has entered the world of virtual reality with the newly released Apple Vision Pro. Here's everything you need to know about playing VR video and spatial computing content via DeoVR on the Apple Vision Pro.  

Please note: the Apple Vision Pro OS has updated to versionOS 2 - you need to update your AVP device or the DeoVR WebXR hub will no longer work [Sept 23 update]

Updates: 

September 2024:

• Vision OS 2.0 (AVP) update: quality better, smooth video and stream playback, 4k per eye, PT not yet supported but work ongoing
• DeoVR-lite standalone app for the Apple Vision Pro coming soon. This new lite version of DeoVR should be more than capable of delivering the best VR content to Apple Vision Pro owners. Keep checking back for the latest updates.

DeoVR 8K VR on the Apple Vision Pro: 

• DeoVR supports videos in 8K (4000p) on the Apple Vision Pro headset via webXR. The entire DeoVR library is compatible. 
• Correction of colour space: colour is improved and more like the Quest 3 quality
• Now possible to change quality while in immersive mode
• Bug fix: Minor bug where the user was not able to play video without the sound being switched off

How to access DeoVR on the Apple Vision Pro:

DeoVR.com can be accessed on the Apple Vision Pro via the built-in Safari browser. VR access is automatically enabled on the headset in Apple Vision Pro (ver.18).  Previously you had to enable the flags in settings but this is no longer the case. (June 2024 update)

Headset browser functionality is an API for web browsers used by VR and AR devices to deliver an immersive experience. It works as an interface between the headset's software and the digital experience in the browser, removing the need to download an application.

Opening VR Mode (AVP or any other headset)

• Open browser
• Go to deovr.com
• Open the video you would like to watch
• Click the "Enter VR" button or the VR glasses button on the main player panel on the bottom right.

The DeoVR team have been working hard on a fully functional DeoVR app, but Apple's proprietary ecosystem is making things increasingly difficult. We hope to produce one in the coming months. 

Passthrough on the Vision Pro

Viewing passthrough content from DeoVR on the Vision Pro is not possible yet. It simply shows a black background, and the video quality can't be changed from the default of 1920p. This is because Apple does not give access to AR. It can not be enabled, even in the settings. However, as soon as they enable it in an update of the Vision Pro OS, it will be enabled automatically for all DeoVR users - there will be no need to release an update. 

Guide: Recording spatial video with Apple Vision Pro + iPhone 15 Pro Max

Apple Vision Pro Specs info [Dec 2023): 

Comparing VR on the Apple Vision Pro to the Meta Quest 3

• Price - The Meta Quest retails for $499, while the Vision Pro costs $3,499. 
• Resolution - Apple boasts 4K per eye (23 million pixels). The Meta Quest 3 has a resolution rate of 2064 x 2208. 
• Controls - The Meta Quest 3 has controllers, while the Vision Pro does not. However, supported accessories for the AVP include: Keyboard, Trackpads, Game Controllers. 
• Storage and Battery - Apple requires users to carry a battery for “wireless” VR experiences, while the Meta Quest 3 doesn’t. As for storage, the Meta Quest starts with 128 GB, while the Vision Pro starts with 256 GB. 
• Processor - Apple has designed its own processor and operating system, while the Meta Quest 3 uses the next generation of Qualcomm Snapdragon chips. 

Currently, the Meta Quest 3 is more accessible and easier to use, especially for those already used to VR hardware. Plus, the price point is much more affordable. 

The Bottom Line: Is VR Worth It On the Apple Vision Pro?

Apple launching its own VR headset will likely be a net positive for the industry but there are issues displaying VR content and vital apps do not yet work, due to Apple's execution of WebXR. The DeoVR team is working hard to resolve this. Keep checking back to this blog for updates.