Apple Releases visionOS SDK, Encouraging Developers to Create Content for Vision Pro

Apple has announced the availability of its visionOS software development kit (SDK), allowing third-party developers to start building content for the Vision Pro headset. The SDK has been released at least six months prior to the official launch of the headset in the United States, with a price tag of $3,500.

With the lukewarm response to the Vision Pro when it was unveiled at WWDC earlier this month, Apple is relying on developer interest to generate excitement around the system. Content has been a significant challenge in the development of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) for years.

However, Apple is confident that a well-stocked App Store will be ready by the time the system hits the market in early 2024.

In a press release, Vice President Susan Prescott highlighted that developers can leverage their existing knowledge and powerful frameworks to build visionOS apps. They can also utilize new tools and technologies like Reality Composer Pro to design innovative user experiences. Prescott emphasized the potential of spatial computing to unlock new opportunities for developers, enabling them to create new ways for users to connect, be productive, and enjoy different forms of entertainment.

The visionOS SDK is built on the same underlying framework as Apple's other operating systems, making use of familiar development tools such as Xcode, SwiftUI, RealityKit, ARKit, and TestFlight. By adopting this approach, Apple aims to lower the entry barrier for existing developers. The company encourages developers to port their existing software to the new platform, following a path of least resistance. This strategy aligns with Apple's previous initiatives, such as the Game Porting Tool Kit for the Mac and iPad, which aimed to facilitate software migration across platforms.