As noted by FlatpanelsHD, the Apple TV app on tvOS 17.2 beta is starting to display 3D versions of movies that will be playable on the upcoming Apple Vision Pro headset.
A new “3D”” icon will appear in the metadata section of the compatible movie. The icon appears next to the symbols for Dolby Vision, 4K, Rating, etc. The 3D icon is shaped like a headset, indicating that 3D playback will only be available through Vision Pro.
Of course, we can assume that the list of compatible games will expand over time. So far, FlatpanelsHD has spotted the 3D icon appearing in about 20 games, including Jurassic World Dominion, Pacific Rim Uprising, and Shrek. It's not yet clear what exact frame rates and 3D resolutions will be available.
While home 3D TVs were a passing fad about a decade ago, it's possible that AR/VR headsets like the Vision Pro could reignite interest to this environment.
At the product presentation at WWDC, Apple showed a clip from the movie “Avatar: The Way of Water” to show how the Vision Pro can immerse the user in water. in a rich 3D movie watching experience. Press members who saw the device showed the same Avatar clip, with many describing it as better 3D quality than in a movie theater.
Apple has not yet confirmed whether 3D will be included. as part of the standard price of purchasing a movie from the Apple TV App Store or if it costs more. There is some related precedent for it being included for free. When Apple released Apple TV 4K in 2017, it partnered with movie studios to improve the customer experience. Buy HD movies in 4K quality at no extra cost.
Vision Pro will be available in the US “early next year”” from $3499. By the end of 2024 it will go on sale in other countries. Apple is expected to sell only about 500,000 units in its first year.
