Reimagining Home: A New Home Interface Framework for the Apple Vision Pro

Abstract

With the rise of AR/VR technologies, we are shifting from screen-based computing to spatial computing. In this context, the interface is no longer bounded behind a screen but exists within our space. This thesis questions what it means to design an interface for a space, and reimagines the Apple Vision Pro’s Home View to propose an answer. While the Vision Pro introduces innovative user experiences, its current home screen interface remains rooted in two-dimensional conventions: a window con- sisting of a multi-page grid of flat application icons. Drawing from Apple’s design legacy of simplicity, playfulness, and deference, this thesis introduces a new Home interface framework of two key components: a new visual library of tactile and play- ful 3D application icons and an immersive home space that includes a volumetric App Library and custom interaction model to bring applications to life in the user’s physical space. The resulting interface is one that emphasizes play and personaliza- tion. The interface is evaluated through both a heuristic analysis and scenario-based walkthroughs; through these evaluations we find that the interface’s strength lie in its spatial freedom and user autonomy, and possess opportunities of improvement through diversifying system feedback mechanisms and including a user onboarding. This interface aims to propose a framework for future spatial interfaces and through it, encourage more efforts for research and exploration in spatial UI/UX design.