Apple’s spatial videos offer an immersive 3D experience that captures moments in a unique, lifelike way. These videos were previously only available on Apple’s own devices but Meta now provides a way to enjoy these videos on Meta Quest headsets with the latest OS update.
What Is A Spatial Video?
A spatial video is a type of video shot in 3D that creates depth and detail, making the viewer feel as though they’re experiencing the scene firsthand. Apple introduced this feature on its iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models, allowing users to capture videos that bring scenes to life in ways standard videos cannot. With the recent OS update from Meta, it’s now possible to enjoy these videos on Meta Quest 2, Quest 3, and Quest Pro headsets.
Required Devices And Software
Watching spatial videos on a Meta Quest headset requires specific devices and software versions to ensure smooth playback. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Meta Quest Headset
This feature works on Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3, and Meta Quest Pro models. While the Quest 3 is the newest and offers a sharper display, older models still support this update, giving a broader audience access to spatial videos.
2. OS Build v62 or Higher
The Meta Quest needs to be updated to OS build v62 or higher to support spatial video playback. Users can check for OS updates in the device settings and access the Public Test Feed if needed to force an update to the latest version.
3. iPhone 15/16 Pro or iPhone 1516 Pro Max
Since spatial videos are recorded only with Apple’s iPhone 15/16 Pro and iPhone 15/16 Pro Max models, having one of these devices is essential for uploading and viewing your own spatial videos on Meta Quest. Currently, these are the only devices capable of capturing spatial video.
4. Meta App on iPhone
The Meta app is required to upload and manage spatial videos on your iPhone. This app links directly with your Meta Quest, enabling a seamless transfer process. Once uploaded, videos appear in Meta’s Gallery, making it easy to access them from the Files app on your headset.
How to Upload Spatial Videos From iPhone To Meta Quest
If you have spatial videos on your iPhone 15/16 Pro, follow these steps to upload them to your Meta Quest:
- Open the Meta app on your iPhone.
- Tap on your profile picture at the bottom.
- In the top-right corner, select the option to open the gallery.
- Choose “Upload” and select the spatial videos you want to transfer.
- Tap “Upload” again to start the process.
The Meta app will notify you when the videos are ready to view on your headset, which makes it simple to keep track of the upload status.
How To View Spatial Videos On Meta Quest
Once the videos are uploaded, they’ll be accessible in the Files app on your Meta Quest headset. To view them, follow these instructions:
- Press the Meta button on your VR headset controller to bring up the main menu.
- Select “Apps” and then choose the “Files” app.
- In the Files app, look for the folder labeled “Spatial Videos.”
- Select the video you want to watch, and it will begin playing in 3D.
Quality And Playback Experience On Meta Quest
Watching spatial videos on the Meta Quest offers an impressive experience, though it may not be as high-resolution as on Apple’s Vision Pro. Apple’s spatial videos are recorded at 1080p with 30 frames per second, so there may be a slight reduction in quality when viewed in a 4K-capable headset.
Users may notice a bit of fuzziness or blurriness at the edges of the video frame. However, the Quest’s display handles the videos well, providing clear playback with minimal visual glitches.
Occasional stutters in the video may occur, especially in the Quest 3, but these should not significantly detract from the overall viewing experience. This is likely due to software updates still being optimized for seamless playback.
Types Of Spatial Data Used By Meta Quest
Meta Quest headsets utilize different types of spatial data to understand your surroundings and create realistic interactions between virtual and real-world objects. Here’s a brief overview:
- Scene Data: Simplifies room models, making the Quest more aware of its surroundings.
- Mesh Data: Helps the headset understand the shapes of objects, allowing virtual items to interact more naturally with physical ones.
- Depth Data: Adds a three-dimensional effect by gauging distances, enhancing realism.
- Point Cloud Data: Assists the headset in determining its position in relation to surroundings, making features like multiplayer sessions smoother.
How To Manage Spatial Data Permissions On Meta Quest
When using spatial data, users have control over app permissions, enabling them to decide which apps can access spatial data. To change permissions, follow these steps:
- Access the universal menu by pressing the Meta button on your controller.
- Select “Quick Settings,” then go to “Settings.”
- Navigate to “Privacy and Safety” and select “Device Permissions.”
- In “Device Permissions,” toggle permissions for each app as needed.
Recommended Meta Quest Accessories:
1. MaeckerVR Quest 3 Battery Head Strap
2. MaeckerVR Quest 3 Elite Head Strap
Conclusion
Meta Quest’s support for Apple’s spatial videos adds an exciting new feature to the VR headset, bringing immersive, 3D content to users without requiring them to purchase Apple’s Vision Pro. This integration allows Quest owners to relive moments with family and friends in a realistic way and gives them a taste of spatial video technology.
