visionOS 1.1 beta 2 is now available

Macworld

Apple Vision Pro is so fresh we don’t even have our review done yet. But Apple is wasting no time going from the version of visionOS that comes with the device (already updated to 1.02) to the next significant revision.

We expect visionOS 1.1 to include features primarily aimed at app developers, though we know it will include MDM (Mobile Device Management) for business device management and might include other user-facing features as well. We don’t know when to expect a final release of visionOS 1.1, though late February or early March seems like a good bet.

Update 02/13/24: The second beta of visionOS 1.1 has been released to developers.

What’s new in visionOS 1.1

MDM (Mobile Device Management): Businesses will find it easier to manage workplace users with support for account-driven enrollment, app installation, Managed Apple IDs, network configurations, single sign-on, support for Exchange and Google Workspace, and more.

Reset device: If you forget your Vision Pro passcode, you need to take it to an Apple Store for them to reset the device. 9to5Mac has discovered code to suggest that users will be able to reset their device after multiple failed password attempts. Activation Lock is still active, meaning it can only be set up again with the Apple ID and password used before. This feature appeared in the visionOS 1.1 beta first, but was then included in the general release of visionOS 1.0.3.

App placement: Developers can make apps that allow users to position volumetric scenes and objects closer to the user, according to Apple’s developer release notes.

iMessage Contact Key Verification: This release adds support for iMessage Contact Key Verification.

Personas update: After installing visionOS 1.1, users will be asked to re-capture their Persona, which will use the latest version of the technology for a somewhat improved image.

visionOS 1.1: How to install the public beta

We’re not sure if Apple will have a public beta program for visionOS yet—there’s no Public Beta option yet, but the device is brand new. We expect it would work like it does on other Apple devices.

You’ll probably join the beta by opening Settings, selecting General, then Software Updates. In the Beta Updates section, choose visionOS Public Beta.

visionOS 1.1: How to install the developer beta

You’ll need to be registered as an Apple developer, but you don’t need to be in the $99 per year developer program to access the developer beta; a free developer account will do. You can get one via Xcode or the Apple Developer app in iOS. Here’s how to do it via the Apple Developer app:

Download the Apple Developer App from the App Store.

Open the app.

Tap on Account.

On your Apple Vision Pro, open Settings, choose General, then Software Update. In the Beta Updates menu, select visionOS Devleoper Beta.

Virtual Reality