Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update introduces a new feature called Spatial Scenes, designed to make your ordinary photos feel more alive. Adding depth and motion to flat images creates the illusion of a three-dimensional picture that subtly shifts as you move your iPhone.
And the best part? You don’t need Apple Intelligence or the latest hardware to try it — Spatial Scenes works on any iPhone 12 or newer.
How Spatial Scenes Work
In the Photos app, Spatial Scenes uses generative AI to separate subjects from their backgrounds and generate depth maps. The result is a parallax effect: as you tilt your phone, the subject remains steady while the background gently shifts, mimicking how your eyes perceive depth in real life.
To use it, open a compatible photo in Photos and look for a hexagon icon in the upper-right corner. Tap it, and your picture instantly transforms with the new depth effect. You only need slight movements — small tilts are enough to see the effect come to life.
Spatial Scenes on the Lock Screen
Apple is also extending this feature to the Lock Screen. iOS 26 can automatically suggest photos from your library that work well with Spatial Scenes. If you pick your own, you’ll see a toggle in the customization options to turn the effect on or off. This lets your Lock Screen wallpaper feel more interactive, adding subtle depth whenever you glance at your phone.
Spatial Scenes is currently in Apple’s final testing phase as part of iOS 26, which is expected to roll out widely in the coming weeks.
