Canon Expands EOS VR Lens Compatibility for Apple Vision Pro and Spatial Media

Canon Inc. has made a groundbreaking announcement that signals a significant evolution in immersive media production. Two of its specialized RF lenses for 3D virtual reality (VR) — the RF5.2mm F2.8 L DUAL FISHEYE and the RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE — will now support the Apple Projected Media Profile (APMP). This QuickTime movie format is slated for native support within the Apple Vision Pro ecosystem via visionOS 26, which Apple unveiled at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on June 9, 2025.

This strategic compatibility update enhances the ecosystem for immersive content creators, enabling them to deliver stunningly lifelike experiences with greater ease and versatility using Canon's professional imaging tools and Apple’s cutting-edge spatial computing technology.

Canon’s VR Legacy and Its Evolution with Apple

Canon entered the VR space in 2021 with the launch of its EOS VR System, catering to creators across entertainment, tourism, education, and documentary filmmaking. The introduction of the RF5.2mm F2.8 L DUAL FISHEYE lens marked Canon’s commitment to pushing boundaries in stereoscopic imaging for VR video production.

In June 2024, Canon extended its VR lens lineup with the RF-S3.9mm F3.5 STM DUAL FISHEYE, designed to be more compact and compatible with APS-C format mirrorless cameras, making 3D VR production more accessible to content creators at various levels.

At the heart of Canon’s strategy is deepening collaboration with Apple, leveraging the Vision Pro’s capabilities to deliver a truly immersive user experience. The APMP format, a QuickTime profile created for spatial computing environments, facilitates native playback of VR media with unparalleled depth and realism on Apple Vision Pro.

visionOS 26 and Native APMP Playback

With Apple’s announcement of visionOS 26, scheduled for public release in the latter half of 2025, Canon’s RF lenses — specifically the RF5.2mm and RF-S3.9mm — will support APMP-formatted content. Creators using compatible Canon mirrorless cameras can convert their footage into APMP using the EOS VR Utility software. This streamlined process empowers users to enjoy high-quality, stereoscopic playback seamlessly on the Vision Pro without relying on third-party conversion tools.

The software update ensures enhanced workflows, aligning the entire capture-to-consumption pipeline for immersive 3D video content.

New Capabilities: Spatial Video and Now, Spatial Photo

Canon is not stopping at video. The company has also announced support for “spatial photo” — a new media category supported by Apple Vision Pro that brings depth and dimension to still imagery. The RF-S7.8mm F4 STM DUAL lens, launched in November 2024, is central to this push.

Initially designed to support spatial video, this lens will soon handle spatial photos through a forthcoming update to the EOS VR Utility app. When paired with Canon mirrorless models like the EOS R7 (launched June 2022) and EOS R50 V (released May 2025), users can now create immersive photo content suitable for Apple’s spatial environments.

Additionally, Canon plans a firmware update for the EOS R50 (released March 2023), scheduled for mid-July 2025, which will make the model compatible with the full EOS VR System. This unlocks support for both spatial photo and video, enhancing the camera’s creative potential in immersive media production.

Broader Implications for Immersive Storytelling

These enhancements reflect Canon's strategic commitment to professional creators, enabling advanced techniques in immersive storytelling. The integration with Apple’s ecosystem is not merely technical but transformative — reducing barriers in VR content creation and amplifying visual storytelling possibilities.

According to Canon, this expanded compatibility will particularly benefit:

• Virtual tour developers creating 3D environments for real estate, museums, or heritage sites

• Educators producing immersive, interactive lessons

• Entertainment producers building 360° experiences for concerts, games, and films

• Content marketers exploring next-gen brand storytelling methods

Canon and Apple: A Strategic Collaboration for the Future

Canon’s roadmap includes further collaborative developments with Apple to evolve the EOS VR System. This partnership is expected to include:

• Deeper integration of Canon hardware with Apple spatial software tools

• Expanded lens and camera support for APMP and spatial media

• Enhancements to the EOS VR Utility platform to simplify 3D post-production

By aligning with Apple’s vision for spatial computing, Canon positions itself as a pivotal player in the growing 3D and VR creative landscape.

A New Horizon for 3D and VR Creativity

Canon’s lens and camera updates mark a significant leap toward democratizing immersive media production. The added support for APMP and spatial media via the EOS VR System not only enriches content possibilities but also simplifies workflows for professionals and enthusiasts alike. As Canon and Apple continue their partnership, creators can look forward to an even more seamless, intuitive, and powerful toolkit to craft the immersive experiences of tomorrow.