Recently, reports have surfaced that Apple is testing a new feature that will allow users to scroll through apps effortlessly using the eye-tracking technology of the Vision Pro headset. According to Bloomberg's technology reporter Mark Gurman, this eye-tracking scrolling function will not only be available for Apple’s own applications but will also be open to third-party developers in the future.
As for how this specific feature will work, there is currently no definitive information available. However, we can speculate that one possible method might involve users focusing their gaze on the edge of a page for a certain period of time to trigger scrolling or aligning their vision with a user interface element and then moving their gaze upward or downward to flip pages. The exact operation of this process remains to be tested and optimized by Apple.
Currently, users can achieve a form of eye-tracking scrolling in Vision Pro using the "Dwell Control" assistive feature. This allows users to open menus or execute actions by briefly looking at an item on the screen. However, to scroll via gaze, users need to focus on an icon until the page scrolls a set distance, which seems somewhat cumbersome. Therefore, many people are eagerly anticipating this new feature from Apple, hoping it will bring a smoother user experience.
In addition to eye-tracking scrolling, Vision Pro supports several other methods of scrolling. Users can use pinch gestures with their fingers and thumbs, combined with lifting or lowering their hands, to scroll, or connect a Bluetooth mouse, or even use the analog joystick on a wireless game controller. These diverse operation methods provide users with flexible choices, making it easier and more efficient to use Vision Pro.
Gurman mentioned in his latest Power On newsletter that Apple plans to release a "feature-rich version" of visionOS3 in the upcoming update, which may bring more information about the eye-tracking scrolling feature. Such updates not only demonstrate Apple's ongoing innovation in augmented reality technology but will also further enhance the user experience. We look forward to hearing more news at the upcoming WWDC conference.
Key points:
1. 👀 Apple is testing a scrolling feature using eye-tracking technology, applicable to Vision Pro apps.
2. 📱 This feature is expected to support Apple's built-in apps and will eventually be opened up to third-party developers.
3. 🌐 Other operation methods include gesture control, Bluetooth mice, and game controllers, enhancing the user experience.