Have you ever imagined turning your ordinary photos into breathtaking 3D images? With Apple's announcement of the Spatial Scenes feature in iOS 13. iOS 26This dream has become a reality! This new feature takes your 26D photos and transforms them into dynamic scenes full of depth and movement. And even better? Any iPhone running iOS XNUMX can enjoy this experience, even if it's not compatible with other Apple smart technologies. In this article, we'll take you on a comprehensive tour to explore this amazing feature, how it works, and why it will change the way you interact with your photos forever.


What is the advantage of spatial scenes?

Spatial Scenes is an innovative addition Apple introduced in the iOS 26 update at WWDC25. Simply put, this feature uses advanced computer vision techniques to transform XNUMXD images in your photo library into interactive XNUMXD scenes. When you tilt or move your iPhone, the image moves dynamically, giving it a sense of depth and life, just as if you were watching a short video.

What makes this technology unique is that it doesn't require images captured by dual cameras or special depth data. Instead, it relies on monocular computer vision technologies running directly on your device, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Whether you're using a photo you took yesterday or one from years ago, spatial scenes can add a magical touch.


How does the spatial view feature work?

The spatial view feature relies on the iPhone's built-in Neural Engine, which is responsible for processing data to create 3D effects. Here's how it works in a nutshell:

◉ Image analysis process, where the system examines the two-dimensional image to understand the elements within it, such as people, objects, or the background.

◉ Depth reconstruction: Here, computer vision techniques are used to create a virtual depth map that adds a three-dimensional dimension to the image.

◉ Dynamic interaction process: When you move the device, the image responds with a slight movement, enhancing the sense of depth and realism.

◉ Integration with the Photos app: The feature is built directly into the Photos app, allowing you to easily transform any image into a spatial scene.

Unlike other Apple smart features that rely on the full Apple intelligence suite, spatial scenes use local, on-device AI, meaning they work even on older iPhones that support iOS 26. This makes them a comprehensive feature available to everyone.


How do you use the spatial view feature?

To enjoy the spatial view feature, all you need is an iPhone running iOS 26. Here are the simple steps:

◉ Make sure your device is updated to iOS 26. The beta is expected to be available to developers after WWDC25, with a public release in fall 2025.

◉ Open the Photos app, and choose any photo from your library.

◉ To activate the feature, look for the option to convert the image to a Spatial Scene within the editing options.

◉ Enjoy the experience, move your device to see the image come to life!

◉ If you want to try the feature on your lock screen, you can select a spatial image as your wallpaper and customize it with new liquid glass effects.


Why are spatial scenes revolutionary?

Apple is known for pioneering innovative experiences, and that's a bold fact. Spatial Views is a natural extension of its spatial computing efforts, which began with the Vision Pro. But what makes this technology special is that it brings this immersive experience to millions of users who don't own Apple Vision Pro. Here are some reasons why this feature is revolutionary:

◉ Bringing memories to life: Imagine looking at an old photo of a family vacation or a special moment with friends, and suddenly the image becomes a living scene that moves with you. This sense of depth makes memories more impactful and emotional.

◉ Integrating spatial computing into everyday life By integrating this feature into the Photos app and the lock screen, Apple brings the concept of spatial computing closer to the average user, making it part of their daily experience.

◉ Wide compatibility. Unlike many newer features that require advanced hardware, Spatial Scenes works on any iPhone that supports iOS 26, meaning everyone can experience it.


Integration with the Photos app and lock screen

One of the most notable aspects of the Spatial Scenes feature is its seamless integration with the Photos app and the Lock screen in iOS 26. When you select a photo in the Photos app, you can transform it into a Spatial Scene with just a tap. The image will appear to come to life, with dynamic visual effects that react to the movement of your device.

On the lock screen, Apple introduced a new design called Liquid Glass, where widgets and notifications adapt to the selected image. If you choose an image with spatial views, the lock screen becomes an immersive experience that adds a modern and personal touch to your device. You can also add 3D effects to your wallpaper for a more engaging look.


How are spatial scenes different from spatial videos?

Some may wonder how the spatial view feature differs from the spatial videos Apple introduced with the iPhone 15 Pro and Apple Vision Pro glasses. The answer lies in the method of construction and the purpose:

◉ Spatial videos are captured using dual cameras to record depth data and are specifically designed for viewing on the Vision Pro. These videos provide a fully immersive experience, but require specific hardware.

◉ Spatial scenes rely on converting two-dimensional images into three-dimensional scenes using artificial intelligence. They don't require special equipment or images captured in a specific way, making them more flexible and easy to use.

◉ In other words, spatial scenes are a simplified, publicly accessible version of the spatial computing experience, while spatial videos are intended for a more advanced experience with devices like the Vision Pro headset.


The impact of spatial scenes on user experience

Imagine viewing a photo of yourself in nature, and as you tilt your iPhone, the trees in the background begin to move slightly, while the mountains in the depths appear more clearly. This experience isn't just a visual effect; it's a new way to relive precious moments. This feature adds an emotional dimension to photos, making them more than just a static memory.

Moreover, making this feature available to all iOS 26 users signifies Apple's commitment to making spatial computing a part of everyday life. Whether you use an older iPhone or the latest model, you can now experience a glimpse of Apple's technological future with the Vision Pro glasses.


Additional benefits for users

Images converted into spatial scenes can be used in presentations or creative projects to add a professional touch.

The spatial view feature makes browsing photos a fun and interactive experience, especially for kids or tech enthusiasts.

You can share these spatial views with friends via social media apps, adding a new dimension to the sharing experience.


The Future of Spatial Computing with Apple

The spatial viewer feature is a first step toward integrating spatial computing into everyday devices. As Apple continues to develop visionOS and devices like the Vision Pro, we can expect to see more innovations that blend the real and virtual worlds. For example, at WWDC25, Apple announced improvements to visionOS 26, such as interactive spatial tools and support for controllers like the PlayStation VR2, signaling its commitment to expanding this area.

By making spatial view technology available on the iPhone, Apple is paving the way for a broader spatial computing experience, which could encourage developers to create new applications that take advantage of this technology. In the future, we may see applications for education, gaming, or even e-commerce using this feature to deliver immersive experiences.


The Spatial Scenes feature in iOS 26 is more than just a simple update; it's a gateway to a world of spatial computing that blends reality and imagination. By transforming ordinary photos into interactive XNUMXD scenes, Apple delivers an experience that combines advanced technology with the simplicity users love.

Whether you're a photography enthusiast or just looking for a new way to relive your memories, this feature will add a new dimension to your experience.

Are you excited to try out the spatial view feature? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

Source:

9to5mac

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