Apple is gearing up for the much-anticipated launch of its Vision Pro AR headset, set to hit the market in early 2024. As part of its preparation, the tech giant has commenced the distribution of developer kits to a select group of eligible applicants. This week, Apple revealed its plan to loan Vision Pro developer kits to approved members of the Apple Developer Program, a strategic move to encourage developers to create innovative and immersive experiences for the upcoming headset.
The application process for the developer kit is thorough, with interested developers required to submit their applications and provide details about their team’s development skills and existing apps. Apple emphasizes that only approved account holders in the Apple Developer Program will be considered for the developer kits. Upon approval, developers must adhere to the terms and conditions set forth by Apple.
The terms and conditions are comprehensive, with Apple exercising strict control over who can access, view, or handle the Vision Pro. In an effort to maintain confidentiality, Apple forbids family members, friends, roommates, and household employees from interacting with the developer kit. Additionally, developers are prohibited from discussing Vision Pro publicly, either in person or on social media platforms.
For those fortunate enough to receive the Vision Pro developer kit, Apple offers comprehensive support to ensure a seamless development process. Alongside the headset hardware, approved developers will receive assistance with setting up the Vision Pro and onboarding. They will also have the opportunity for check-ins with Apple experts for UI design and development guidance, as well as troubleshooting support for any code-related issues.
Apple has made it clear that priority will be given to applicants who are creating apps that leverage the advanced features and capabilities of visionOS, the operating system powering the Vision Pro. The company is making concerted efforts to encourage developers to embrace the spatial computing experiences made possible by this revolutionary AR headset.
Furthermore, Apple will be hosting Vision Pro developer labs in major cities across the globe, including Cupertino, London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo. Developers can apply for these labs on Apple’s official website. To ensure app compatibility with visionOS, Apple has released a detailed compatibility checklist for developers to follow.
The Vision Pro promises to be a groundbreaking product, marking Apple’s first major product launch since the introduction of the Apple Watch in 2014. With its array of sensors and cameras, the headset enables spatial computing experiences that are set to revolutionize the AR landscape. Upon its release, the visionOS app store will host a range of apps, including Unity apps running natively on the Vision Pro, from prominent developers such as Adobe, Microsoft, Netflix, Cisco, and more.
Additionally, over 100 Apple Arcade titles will be available to play on visionOS from day one, providing users with a vast array of captivating experiences. As anticipation builds, developers eagerly await the launch of the Vision Pro, poised to unleash their creativity and redefine the possibilities of augmented reality.