Apple Vision Pro users are about to take a cosmic journey with the launch of visionOS 26. The update, set for public release on September 15, introduces the long-promised Jupiter environment, giving users an interactive space experience unlike any before.
A First for Immersive Environments
While Apple has offered scenic backdrops such as beaches or animated landscapes, the Jupiter environment stands out as the first truly interactive one. Users appear on Jupiter’s moon Amalthea, facing the massive gas giant. From there, they can access an “Explore Jupiter” panel that lets them adjust the time of day or even pause time completely.
Controlling Space and Time
The feature allows users to move a slider to shift time forward or backward. As they do, the stars and sun shift in the sky, creating a cinematic display. Apple also animated several of Jupiter’s moons, which glide across the view in real-time or at faster speeds. Users can choose normal flow, speed things up, or freeze the scene.
Science Meets Imagination
Though designed for fun, the environment draws inspiration from real astronomy. Amalthea, a potato-shaped moon, orbits Jupiter in about 12 hours. The simulation captures this motion, giving the experience a semi-realistic feel, even if it remains a creative interpretation.
More Than Just Scenery
visionOS 26 does more than add Jupiter. The update also includes spatial widgets and other enhancements, making Vision Pro more functional alongside its entertainment features. For many, though, the chance to explore Jupiter and bend time will be the highlight of the release.
