In a surprising turn of events, YouTube has confirmed that it is actively working on a native app for Apple’s spatial computer, Vision Pro. This revelation comes just weeks after the initial statement by YouTube in January, where they claimed to have no plans for a dedicated Vision Pro app. The shift in stance could be attributed to the emergence of third-party apps like Juno, which offers a paid alternative for YouTube on Vision Pro.
YouTube’s Vision Pro App Takes Center Stage
The Journey So Far
At the launch of Vision Pro, over 600 native apps were available, but major players like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify opted out of creating dedicated apps. However, the landscape is evolving rapidly, with YouTube now acknowledging the need for a native app. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to providing a seamless experience on Vision Pro, evident in the ongoing optimization of YouTube on Safari for enhanced user interaction.
Juno’s Impact
Christian Selig, renowned for developing Apollo for Reddit, introduced Juno as a third-party YouTube app for Vision Pro. Priced at $4.99, Juno offers functionalities like window scaling, scrolling, and scrubbing. Despite some limitations, such as the inability to change resolutions or view comments, Juno’s success might have influenced YouTube’s decision to develop its own free, official app for Vision Pro.
YouTube’s Roadmap and Optimizing Safari
The recent statement to The Verge from YouTube spokesperson Jessica Gibby confirmed the development of a Vision Pro app and emphasized the company’s focus on providing an excellent experience on Safari in the meantime. Although no specific timeframe was provided, this shift indicates YouTube’s willingness to adapt to the Vision Pro platform, possibly introducing a native client rather than just iPad compatibility mode.
Also See: Apple Vision Pro vs. Meta Quest 3: What is the Difference
Challenges and Future Prospects
Notably, YouTube and Apple have yet to address the support for the extensive library of 360 and VR videos on YouTube. The absence of compatibility for 3D and 360 videos on Vision Pro has left users seeking answers. Apple’s acknowledgment of working on WebXR support offers a glimmer of hope for the potential integration of YouTube VR videos on the web using Safari, albeit with some limitations.
Also See: 10 Drawbacks with Apple Vision Pro Make Users Want to Return
Conclusion:
The evolving landscape of spatial computing is bringing about changes in the strategies of major content platforms. With YouTube now actively planning a dedicated app for Apple Vision Pro, users can anticipate a more tailored and immersive experience. The integration of YouTube’s extensive library of 360 and VR content remains a challenge, but the commitment to evolving web standards and emerging technologies suggests a positive trajectory for Vision Pro users. As the development of YouTube’s Vision Pro app progresses, the spatial computing community eagerly awaits a seamless and immersive viewing experience on this innovative platform.
