Apple's newly awarded patent hints at how the tech behemoth plans to improve the external display capabilities of its Vision Pro headset beyond what was previously stated. While the present EyeSight feature displays the wearer's eyes or a color pattern to indicate VR immersion, this patent describes how to use the external display for a broader range of creative applications. The patent, co-authored by Jony Ive, addresses the use of the outward-facing screen of a head-mounted display (HMD) for various interactive tasks.

The patent images contain several amusing examples such as showing shades over the wearer's eyes, weather forecasts, 'do not disturb' signals, and even replacing the eyes with Zoom call symbols. Apple adds that the patent covers HMDs with external screens to improve interaction while wearing a visually isolating headset.

Apple's newly awarded patent hints at how the tech behemoth plans to improve the external display capabilities of its Vision Pro headset beyond what was previously stated. While the present EyeSight feature displays the wearer's eyes or a color pattern to indicate VR immersion, this patent describes how to use the external display for a broader range of creative applications. The patent, co-authored by Jony Ive, addresses the use of the outward-facing screen of a head-mounted display (HMD) for various interactive tasks.

The patent images contain several amusing examples such as showing shades over the wearer's eyes, weather forecasts, 'do not disturb' signals, and even replacing the eyes with Zoom call symbols. Apple adds that the patent covers HMDs with external screens to improve interaction while wearing a visually isolating headset.

Devices with opaque housings, such as the Vision Pro, can give exceptionally immersive virtual or augmented reality experiences by totally enclosing the wearer's field of view. However, this also prevents outward vision and noises, perhaps rendering the wearer unaware of their surroundings. The external display provides a means of bridging that gap.

It remains to be seen whether these depicted EyeSight enhancements will be implemented or if they are merely early concept brainstorming. Patents do not guarantee that features will appear in actual products.

The announced EyeSight feature is straightforward, yet it ventures into uncharted area. It's uncertain whether displaying the wearer's eyes or VR patterns will be useful for bystander interaction or just seem weird. It's unclear how successfully EyeSight will be implemented until Apple shows it out.

With a release date rumored to be imminent, we may soon find out whether EyeSight is a truly useful integration or merely a fad. In any case, this patent implies that Apple is really thinking about how to evolve the external display into a more versatile communication tool for future generations. The Vision Pro attempts to push the limits of wearable technology. While the first release focuses on basic performance and experience, Apple has long-term plans to expand on that basis.