If you’re an XR developer then you might be keen on getting your hands on the Apple Vision Pro headset. Unveiled back in June, Apple’s first foray into mixed reality technology is an enticing prospect. Creators can now submit applications to get their hands on a Vision Pro dev kit, so long as they meet all the prerequisites.
Head to the new landing page and you’ll be able to start the application process. Naturally, Apple isn’t going to merely give out a $3499 USD headset to anyone who fancies a go. “You’ll need to be an Account Holder in the Apple Developer Program, provide details about your team’s development skills and existing apps, and agree to the terms and conditions,” the page notes.
Apple’s spatial computing future
A lot of big manufacturers tend to give trusted creators permanent access to hardware for continued development. Apple specifically notes that it’ll “loan you a Vision Pro developer kit to prepare your app for the launch of the new App Store on Vision Pro.” How long that loan window is for is unknown but Apple will request it back.
Vision Pro dev kit applications that are successful will see developers aided on a number of levels. From setting up the device and onboarding to help from Apple experts regarding UI design and development guidance.
As previously reported Apple plans on running Vision Pro developer labs in Cupertino (US), London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo. Location may affect who it gives dev kits to. Another aspect to consider is that Apple says: “priority will be given to applicants creating an app that takes advantage of visionOS features and capabilities.” So any old app idea probably won’t work.
The Apple Vision Pro is scheduled for release in 2024. Described as a ‘spatial computing’ device, the company has been careful to avoid terms like ‘VR’ in describing its capabilities.
Are you an XR developer? Will you be applying for the dev kit? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.