According to a new patent registered by Apple, the company is working on accessibility for the Apple Vision Pro.

As originally reported by Apple Insider, Apple has filed a patent for new software described as “a method and device for defining custom hand gestures.” According to its description, the software uses the Apple Vision Pro's image sensor, one or more processors, and some memory to store hand gestures performed by the user. This gesture can be set to perform a specific function on the device, such as muting a call or opening a particular app.

The patent also includes several diagrams detailing how this feature would work, giving an idea of some of the possibilities. Perhaps the headset asks the user to create a gesture, captures it (with the option to include variations), and synchronizes that gesture to a specific function.

Increasing the number of customizable gesture commands is definitely one of the best moves the Apple Vision Pro could make. This would allow more people to easily get the most out of the headset and make the kit feel more personal. However, to make the Apple Vision Pro truly one of the best headset options, Apple needs to hurry up and add Apple Intelligence as a feature as well.

Apple's Vision Pro was sluggish when it first launched, in part due to the headset's exorbitant price. However, Apple is working to improve the headset and make it more attractive to users; during WWDC, Apple announced VisionOS 2, the next-generation software for Vision Pro. For example, the new OS introduces spatial photo gallery viewing with other Vision users and more immersive photos and videos.

It is important to note that just because a feature is patented does not mean that it will be included immediately or at all. Sometimes companies file patents to discourage other developers from using the same technology. All we can do is wait and see if Apple announces a new feature.

We cannot get over the cost of the Apple Vision Pro, so the purchase is a significant investment. Our global editor-in-chief used the Apple Vision Pro for a month and found it to be a great investment. We also have a breakdown of everything else Apple announced at WWDC 2024, including iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia.