The Apple Vision Pro, with its innovative augmented reality features, has redefined the way we interact with the digital world. However, a common misconception surrounding this device is the availability of a dedicated physical keyboard. Unlike traditional computers and tablets, this headset prioritizes a hands-free, gesture-based approach, making the inclusion of a physical keyboard irrelevant to its design philosophy. In this article, we show you how to use the Apple Vision Pro keyboard, covering methods that utilize hand gestures, eye-tracking, and voice input.
If you’d like to find out more about this impressive VR headset, then take a look at some of our other content on the topic. For example, our Apple Vision Pro vs Meta Quest 3 comparison guide, where we consider the features and feedback of each product in a side-by-side comparison. Additionally, you could check out some of our other helpful how-to guides, like our how-to pair the Vision Pro with Macbook Pro and Air guide, where we highlight the ways in which you can connect the Vision Pro to various Mac products.
How do you activate the Apple Vision Pro keyboard?
To activate your Vision Pro’s virtual keyboard just tap (index finger & thumb pinch motion) in any text field and the virtual keyboard will pop up directly in front of you. If you’d like to edit the settings of your keyboard function or remove it, head to Settings>General>Keyboard, where you’ll find a toggle that will turn typing features on or off.
How to use the Apple Vision Pro keyboard – three input methods
While the Vision Pro doesn’t come with a physical keyboard, it offers several alternative input methods designed to seamlessly integrate with its unique interface.
Hand gestures
Using the Vision Pro’s advanced hand tracking technology, users are able to simply type on the virtual keyboard.
Step
Open text field
Tap on a text field, such as notes in the Notes app.
Step
Type on text field
Once you’ve tapped on a text field, a keyboard should pop up directly in front of you. Using your finger or a compatible stylus, you can now type on the virtual keyboard. Look at the key and tap with your index finger and thumb.
Voice control
The Vision Pro integrates seamlessly with Siri, Apple’s intelligent voice assistant. You can use voice commands to dictate text, navigate through menus, and interact with applications, offering a hands-free alternative to typing.
Step
Open text field
Tap on a text field, such as notes in the Notes App.
Step
Select microphone
Once a text field is opened, a virtual keyboard should appear in front of you. Select the microphone icon in the top-left corner, by looking at it and tapping.
Step
Dictate
Now that microphone is on, you are able to dictate what you’d like to type – offering a simple, hands-free alternative.
Eye-tracking
This innovative technology allows you to control the virtual keyboard and other on-screen elements using your gaze, without needing physical interaction.
Step
Open text field
Tap on a text field, such as notes int he Notes App.
Step
Use eye-tracking to type
Once a text field is selected a keyboard will pop up directly in front of you. By simply focusing your eyes on specific keys or buttons, you can type without the need for any physical interaction.
How do I connect my keyboard to my Vision Pro?
Although the Vision Pro doesn’t have a dedicated keyboard port, it supports Bluetooth connectivity. This allows you to connect a third-party Bluetooth keyboard if you prefer a direct touch typing experience. However, it’s crucial to remember that the Vision Pro’s interface and features are primarily optimized for the aforementioned touch-based and voice-enabled input methods. Utilizing a physical keyboard might require additional navigation and adjustments compared to a traditional computer setup.
Conclusion
The Apple Vision Pro represents a bold leap forward in human-computer interaction, prioritizing an intuitive and natural user experience. While the lack of a physical keyboard might surprise some users accustomed to traditional computing devices, it’s essential to understand that the Vision Pro is designed for a fundamentally different interaction style. By embracing the innovative input methods offered by the device, users can unlock its full potential and experience a truly immersive and hands-free way to engage with the digital world.
