Apple Patents Vision Pro Headset with Simulated Floral Scents and More: A New Level of Immersive AR Experience

Recently, the US Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO) granted a patent, numbered US 11715301 B2, to Apple Inc. The patent pertains to a technology designed for the Vision Pro headset, which enables the visualization of phenomena usually invisible to the human eye. With this technology, wearers can visualize auditory signals, radio signals, and more, offering a unique blend of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and actual physical environments.



Apple's intention with the patent is to enhance the sensory experience of AR and VR by integrating computer-generated content, allowing users to perceive and interact with typically unseen elements, such as radio waves. These invisible features encompass a wide range, including electromagnetic signals (like Wi-Fi signals), airflow from HVAC systems, the temperature of physical objects, auditory fences and sensors for pets, sounds generated by musical instruments, and hidden physical objects, among others.

Intriguingly, the patent also indicates that the Vision Pro headset could potentially stimulate the wearer's sense of smell. This would be achieved by simulating a variety of odors, using a combination designed to mimic pre-defined smells of gases, vapors, or particulates. For instance, in a virtual experience created by Apple as described in the patent, a user could walk into a flower shop or fruit stand and actually smell the scents of flowers or fruits.