Netflix announces no plans for dedicated app on Apple Vision Pro

Netflix isn’t planning on releasing a dedicated app for the Apple Vision Pro, nor will the company modify its iPad version to run on the headset. Instead, users will have to resort to the web version, meaning they can’t access features like downloading titles for offline viewing. “Our members will be able to enjoy Netflix on the web browser on the Vision Pro, similar to how our members can enjoy Netflix on Macs,” a Netflix spokesperson said in a statement provided to TechCrunch. One user wrote:Mixed reality headsets are still niche products and Netflix likely believes the Vision Pro won’t be a huge hit with customers – at least not right away — especially given the outrageous price point ($3,500). The Apple Vision Pro will be available for purchase on February 2 and will include the ability to download and stream movies and TV shows from popular services like Disney+, Apple TV+, Max, Discovery+, Paramount+, Prime Video, Peacock, Pluto TV and Tubi, among others.

Tech-lovers may be disappointed to learn that Netflix has no plans to release a dedicated app for the highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro. In fact, the streaming giant confirmed that it will not even modify its iPad version to run on the new headset. Instead, users will have to make do with the web version, which unfortunately means they will miss out on features like downloading titles for offline viewing.

“Our members will be able to enjoy Netflix on the web browser on the Vision Pro, similar to how our members can enjoy Netflix on Macs,” a Netflix spokesperson stated to TechCrunch.

While this news may come as a letdown to some, it is not entirely unexpected. Bloomberg reported in July that Netflix had no plans for a native app, but this is the official confirmation from the company itself.

As for the performance of the browser version, it should be similar to that of the iPad version. However, for those who were eagerly anticipating an immersive experience while watching their favorite Netflix content, this may be a disappointment. In comparison, Disney+ seems to be going above and beyond by offering four different backdrops inspired by popular franchises like Marvel and Star Wars.

If we take a look at Netflix’s outdated Meta Quest app, it is evident that the streaming service may not be as invested in mixed reality headsets as other companies. Complaints about the app’s “awful resolution,” bugs, and overall poor quality have been plentiful.

One user wrote:

Mixed reality headsets are still niche products and Netflix likely believes the Vision Pro won’t be a huge hit with customers – at least not right away — especially given the outrageous price point ($3,500).

The Apple Vision Pro will officially be available for purchase on February 2nd and will include the capability to download and stream movies and TV shows from popular services like Disney+, Apple TV+, and more. Pre-orders for the device open tomorrow, January 19th at 8 a.m. ET, and there will even be 150 3D movies available for rent or purchase, including beloved titles like “Avatar: The Way of Water” and “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.”