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.  

New: You can now play 8K VR videos on your Apple Vision Pro! Many thousands of VR videos are currently supported. See below for more details. 

DeoVR now supports 8K VR on the Apple Vision Pro

We're delighted to announce that DeoVR now supports videos in 8K (4000p) on the Apple Vision Pro headset. Every single newly uploaded video will work, from video ID 27690 onwards. We are converting the entire library to be compatible - we expect this to take a few days to complete. Currently over 2400 VR videos play perfectly. [April 2024]

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 with WebXR. This video shows how to access DeoVR via WebXR on the Vision Pro: 

A fully functional DeoVR app is expected to be available on the Apple Vision Pro in May 2024. 

How to enable WebXR in Safari on the Vision Pro: 

WebXR 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. However, in the Apple Vision Pro it's not usable straight away. To get it working, follow these instructions: 

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Apps.
3. Select Safari.
4. Scroll to the bottom of the window and select Advanced.
5. Scroll to the bottom of the window and select Feature Flags.
6. Under Experimental XR Features, enable WebXR Device API and WebXR Hand Input Module
7. Under WebKit Feature Flags, enable WebXR Augmented Reality Module and WebXR GamePads Module
8. Exit Settings
9. Open Safari (if it's already open, refresh a WebXR-enabled page to check it is working)

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.

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. 

Unboxing the Apple Vision Pro

Initial reports on the Vision Pro:

Issues playing content:

• According to early reports, currently, the Vision Pro will not play external VR videos out-of-the-box. It is capable of 8K60FPS VR content but there is no simple way of sideloading them onto the device. 
• It's not possible to download any other browser. Users are limited to Safari only. 
• There are reports that VR content is currently restricted to 1920p in Safari and the native VR player apps have significant issues in playback. 

Other issues: 

• Front-heavy. There have been multiple reports that the Apple Vision Pro is weighted heavily in the front, making it difficult to wear for extended periods of time without some form of modification, such as a modded version of the BOBOVR headstrap. 

VR video coverage of the Vision Pro on DeoVR: 

• DeoVR creator FirstVlogger has released an unboxing video shot with the Canon R5C and has provided useful feedback on the DeoVR Facebook page.
• Discover more about the hardware and exterior on the Apple Vision Pro - 3D Look at the hardware video by Sailing360.

VR content via a prototype app: 

• DeoVR contributor Dean Zwikel has shared a video showing the Vision Pro playing a 10K 3D VR360 video shot with the Insta360 Titan camera.
• However, this is not publicly available - it was only achieved using a prototype app created specifically for this test. The video was converted to the Apple spatial media format before playback. 
• It shows that the Vision Pro is capable of playing very high-quality VR content, but Apple has not made it immediately accessible through the standard Vision Pro software apps. 

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. 
• 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 64 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.