How to record spatial video on iPhone 15 Pro

With iOS 17.2, users can now record spatial videos for Apple Vision Pro on iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max. The method to record spatial videos isn’t as straightforward as recording normal videos on the Camera app. Don’t worry. I’ll make the process simple for you with this step-by-step guide.

How to record spatial video for Apple Vision Pro on iPhone

Also, stick around, as I will be sharing a few essential tips and limitations of recording spatial videos on iPhone 15 Pro. But first, let’s understand what Apple’s spatial video is.

What is Apple Spatial Video?

On the iPhone 15 Pro, a spatial video captures the visuals in front of it as well as the surroundings to provide a 3D video for the Apple Vision Pro.

The Apple Vision Pro will be able to record spatial video natively using the cameras on the headset. On the other hand, the iPhone 15 Pro uses its Main and Ultra Wide cameras to capture these visuals.

Users can experience these videos on the Apple Vision Pro, featuring a depth effect that adjusts as users move their heads in relation to the playing video.

Remember that you can’t experience the effect of spatial videos on your iPhone, but you can still record a bunch of videos that you’d like to view later on the Vision Pro.

As intriguing as it may sound, you must go through a series of steps to get a complete grasp of this idea. First, you need to enable the function in the Settings app and then proceed to record it from the Camera app.

Also, on your iPhone 15 Pro, spatial videos are recorded at 1080p at 30 fps. One minute of spatial video is approximately 130 MB and will be saved in HEVC format. So, before you begin, make sure you’ve enough storage on your iPhone.

How to enable spatial video recording on iPhone 15 Pro

Launch the Settings app on your iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max.
Navigate to the Camera option → Select Formats.
Now, toggle on Spatial Video for Apple Vision Pro.

How to record Spatial Video on iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max

Access the Camera app.
Navigate to the Video option.
Tap the Vision Pro Headset icon from the bottom-left corner.
In order to record a spatial video, you must switch to landscape mode.
In landscape mode, position the camera at an appropriate distance.
You’ll see the Vision Pro icon turn yellow as soon as you set the correct parameters.
If you’re too close to the object, you may be asked to Move further away.
Finally, hit the recording option to get started.
Next to the timer, you’ll see the Apple Vision Pro headset icon turn red.
Press the record button again to end the recording.

You can watch the spatial video in 3D from the Photos app of your gesture-controlled Apple Vision Pro. Even without the Vision Pro, you can watch the video in 2D and share it like any other video from your iPhone.

Moreover, spatial videos are synchronized across all your devices running with the same Apple ID and have iCloud Photos enabled.

How to view spatial videos on iPhone 15 Pro

If you’re wondering where you can find the videos recorded for Apple Vision Pro, then let me guide you through the steps.

Open the Photos app on your iPhone.
Access Library followed by any filter.
Locate and play the video.
Here, you will find a SPATIAL badge highlighted in the top-left corner.

Tips to record spatial video with your iPhone camera

Now that you’re fully aware of recording and playing spatial videos on your iPhone, allow me to empower you with some handy tips for a more immersive experience.

Before you start recording, make sure you are in a well-lit environment. This will enhance depth perception and capture the scene accurately.
After pairing your device with Vision Pro, do not forget to enable Spatial Audio in iPhone Settings for a crisp and clear audio experience.
While recording, mind your movements. Keep your hands slow and steady to avoid blurriness and maintain a seamless spatial effect.
If you pan horizontally, be mindful that abrupt movements might disrupt the fluidity of the spatial video.
I highly recommend using a stabilizing tripod while recording to minimize camera shake and capture smooth footage.
If you’re filming wide shots, do not forget to include details closer to the camera. They leverage the depth of the mapping capabilities on Apple Vision Pro.
Lastly, make sure to review your footage post-recording so that you don’t have to settle for shaky or unwanted clips.

Limitations of recording Spatial Videos on iPhone 15 Pro or 15 Pro Max

Shooting 3D videos for Apple Vision Pro on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max is pretty simple; however, when it comes to modifying the clip, you’re only allowed to mute or trim the video.

If you try anything on your own, the video will probably return to being a normal 2D clip.

Unfortunately, no other editing tools are currently available for spatial video on iPhone. Apple, however, will likely address this limitation in an upcoming update scheduled for 2024 that will enable spatial video editing in Photos and Final Cut Pro.

Relive your favorite moments!

In conclusion, recording spatial videos for Apple Vision Pro with your iPhone is a great way to capture engaging content. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create high-quality 3D videos to showcase your creativity and storytelling.

Get your 15 Pro or Pro Max and start experimenting with spatial video recording today. Thank you for reading, and do take a moment to share your thoughts in the comments below.

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