It has been reported that a significant number of the apps promised for Apple’s Vision Pro, the company’s flagship new platform, may actually be existing versions from the iPad or iPhone. This includes some of Apple’s own first-party apps like Podcasts, News, Calendar, and Reminders. While this choice may seem peculiar at first, it raises questions about how well these touch-centric apps will align with the gaze-and-tap interface of the Vision Pro.
The success of the Vision Pro as a productivity device depends on how well users can interact with apps like Calendar and Reminders. If there is a mismatch between the input method and the app design, it could impact the overall experience of the $3,500 device. Mark Gurman’s analysis in Bloomberg’s Power On newsletter paints a subdued picture of the Vision Pro’s app landscape. Developer enthusiasm appears to be low, possibly influenced by factors such as Apple’s 30 percent App Store cut.
Moreover, the rumored limited initial production of around 80,000 units means that developers may have a small user base to sell their apps to. Independent developers who did not have access to a Vision Pro developer kit might also be deterred by the high entry cost. Even major companies like YouTube and Netflix have opted out of offering native apps at launch, although users can still access their platforms through Safari.
While the lack of certain apps may not be a dealbreaker, it does raise questions about the Vision Pro’s app ecosystem. This situation is reminiscent of past Apple products like the Apple Watch and Apple TV, which initially lacked vibrant app ecosystems but still gained user approval. It is possible that the Vision Pro, as a distinct platform from the iPad and iPhone, may follow a similar trajectory.
However, the apparent lack of developer enthusiasm poses a potential challenge for the headset. To ensure its success, Apple needs more than just a handful of impressive 3D movie apps. They will need to foster a thriving app ecosystem that caters to the unique capabilities of the Vision Pro.
