In a groundbreaking move last June, Apple unveiled its Apple Vision Pro “spatial computing headset,” signaling a new era in augmented reality (AR). The event saw Disney CEO Bob Iger as a special guest, highlighting the close ties between the two tech giants. As Disney embraced this revolutionary technology, it became clear that their collaboration on Apple Vision Pro extended far beyond mere endorsement.
The roots of Apple’s foray into AR trace back to 2015 when it hired Dolby technology executive Mike Rockwell. Fast forward to the present, and Disney’s Chief Technology Officer, Jamie Voris, reveals that their involvement with Apple’s headset project has been a closely guarded secret for years. The collaborative efforts focused on ensuring Disney+ compatibility with Vision Pro from day one, underscoring Disney’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.
While some third-party developers approach Vision Pro cautiously, Disney sees more than just a short-term business opportunity. Aaron LaBerge, President, and CTO of Disney Entertainment & ESPN, views Vision Pro as a new entertainment medium, offering unique storytelling possibilities. Disney’s dedication to the $3,499 headset becomes evident as they retool Disney+ for VisionOS, creating a true spatial interface and immersive viewing environments.
The Disney+ app on Apple Vision Pro introduces four virtual settings inspired by iconic Disney locations, providing a 360-degree, 3D viewing experience. This spatial interface goes beyond a mere short-term adaptation, offering a glimpse into the potential of storytelling in spatial computing.
Behind the scenes, Disney’s tech team utilized Apple’s Reality Composer Pro for creating 3D imagery, leveraging a tool that originated at Disney’s Pixar studio. The collaborative effort between Apple and Disney is poised to go beyond the initial launch, hinting at additional projects and a transformative impact on Disney’s content creation pipeline.
As Disney explores the capabilities of Vision Pro, including the potential of National Geographic-inspired content, the company envisions a future where the headset becomes a mass-market phenomenon. While acknowledging current perceptions of Vision Pro as “bulky and expensive,” Disney remains optimistic about the device’s widespread appeal once it achieves a more accessible price point and form factor.
In essence, Disney’s journey into spatial computing with Apple Vision Pro reflects not only a strategic collaboration but also a visionary outlook on the future of immersive entertainment. As Disney continues to unlock the storytelling potential of augmented reality, the partnership with Apple sets the stage for a new chapter in the convergence of technology and entertainment.