In an exciting development, Apple has revealed plans to launch six test labs across the globe in July. These labs are specifically designed to provide developers with the opportunity to explore and create apps for Vision Pro, Apple’s highly anticipated mixed reality headset.
The test labs will be established at Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, California, as well as in London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo. Developers will have the chance to test their applications on Vision Pro hardware and the accompanying visionOS software at these locations, with the added benefit of receiving support from Apple engineers. Additionally, developer kits will be made available to assist in app development and direct testing on Vision Pro.
Apple has also announced the release of the visionOS software development kit, a powerful tool that equips developers with new software resources and technologies for the Vision Pro. This kit will enable developers to design innovative app experiences across various categories, including productivity, design, gaming, and more.
Susan Prescott, Apple’s Vice President of Worldwide Developer Relations, emphasized the accessibility of the visionOS development process, stating, “Developers can get started building visionOS apps using the powerful frameworks they already know and take their development even further with new innovative tools and technologies.” She further highlighted the potential of spatial computing to unlock new possibilities for developers, enabling them to create enhanced connections, productivity solutions, and entertaining experiences for users.
The Vision Pro headset is Apple’s highly anticipated foray into the mixed reality market and represents their most ambitious product since the launch of the Apple Watch in 2015. Expected to be available next year with a starting price of $3,499, Apple has set a goal of selling three million units in the first year. However, industry experts anticipate sales to reach fewer than 500,000 units initially due to the device’s higher price point.
Nevertheless, Apple’s focus extends beyond the first year’s shipments and immediate competition. The company aims to introduce a futuristic product and gradually integrate it into mainstream culture. Industry analysts and experts believe that by appealing to a different pricing tier and generating interest in augmented and virtual reality among the general population, Apple can pave the way for broader adoption in the future.
Developers will have the advantage of leveraging familiar frameworks, such as Xcode, SwiftUI, RealityKit, ARKit, and TestFlight, to build experiences on the Vision Pro. These foundational frameworks, which have been integral to the Apple ecosystem for years, have attracted a large community of developers and fostered the expansion of apps and services for users.
Starting in July, developers who have been creating 3D apps and games using Unity, a widely-used cross-platform game engine, will also have the opportunity to port their applications to the Vision Pro. This move by Apple signifies their intention to position the Vision Pro as a distinct computing device rather than a gaming console, with a clear call to developers to begin building VR games tailored for the headset.
As the launch of the Vision Pro approaches, Apple’s commitment to providing developers with the necessary tools and resources demonstrates their dedication to cultivating a thriving ecosystem for mixed reality experiences. The test labs and software development kit serve as stepping stones for developers to explore the potential of the Vision Pro and contribute to its success in reshaping the future of computing.
