Apple has launched its latest mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro, but it seems that app developers aren’t jumping on board just yet. Despite the booming success of streaming platforms like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube, these companies have chosen not to create apps for the Vision Pro at launch. According to data from market intelligence firm Appfigures, only a meager 150+ apps have been specifically updated for the Vision Pro on its App Store, which pales in comparison to the 1.8 million apps available on the store. This is a clear indication that not many companies have rushed to build for this new platform, given the relatively small number compared to the extensive developer base of Apple. While the Vision Pro is technically compatible with iOS and iPad apps, the lack of customized or new apps suggests that not many developers have taken advantage of this opportunity.
So why aren’t app developers excited about creating for the Vision Pro? One factor could be the limited supply of headsets for testing. Additionally, these developers may also feel that the market opportunity for their apps on the Vision Pro is small due to its hefty price tag of $3499. It’s also possible that developers are struggling to adapt their touchscreen-optimized apps to a different computing environment.
However, one cannot ignore the negative sentiment among developers towards Apple, fueled by the recent Epic Games antitrust lawsuit. Despite winning the case, the court did require Apple to modify its App Store rules, allowing developers to point to other purchasing options for subscriptions and in-app purchases. In a somewhat malicious move, Apple added numerous caveats and guidelines around this “exception,” including strict rules on how to implement the link within apps and the language to be used by developers. Furthermore, Apple made it clear that the commission rate would only be reduced by 3%, from 30% to 27%, which may not be enough incentive for many app makers, especially considering credit card processing fees. This developer-hostile attitude could potentially have a chilling effect on Apple’s wider developer community, which has already seen diminishing returns in embracing new platforms from the tech giant. For example, the iMessage App Store and watchOS App Store have faced challenges with discoverability and high-profile departures from major apps.
When it comes to the Vision Pro, even tech rivals like YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify have chosen not to develop specifically for Apple’s latest platform, given the company’s competition in the video and music streaming services market. Meta, which has its own VR headset, has also decided against creating native apps for the Vision Pro, according to Appfigures’ list. However, users can still access popular streaming platforms like Disney+, ESPN, MLB, and others, as well as Apple’s own apps and well-known names like Uber, Tinder, CNN, and Washington Post.
While there are a handful of big brands and popular apps that have been built specifically for the Vision Pro, most of them are not widely known. Appfigures also reveals that several apps have opted out entirely, including popular ones like Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, WhatsApp, TikTok, Spotify, and more. Although Apple had promised that existing iPhone and iPad apps would be automatically available for Vision Pro users, developers do have the option to edit their apps’ availability in the App Store Connect. This is made possible due to the native compatibility of Vision Pro apps, as explained by an Apple support document.
It’s likely that many app developers are waiting for the Vision Pro to gain a significant user base before putting in the extra effort to create customized apps. Until then, existing iPhone and iPad apps will suffice on this new platform.
