On June 21, 2023, Apple announced the availability of new software tools and technologies that enable developers to create groundbreaking app experiences for Apple Vision Pro, the company’s first spatial computer. The visionOS software development kit (SDK) and the world’s first spatial operating system, visionOS, allow users to interact with digital content in their physical space using natural inputs such as their eyes, hands, and voice.
With the release of the visionOS SDK, Apple’s global community of developers now has the capability to create an entirely new class of spatial computing apps. These apps can take full advantage of the infinite canvas in Vision Pro, seamlessly blending digital content with the physical world to deliver extraordinary new experiences. Developers can leverage the unique capabilities of Vision Pro and visionOS to design innovative app experiences in categories including productivity, design, gaming, and more.
To support developers in testing their apps on Apple Vision Pro hardware and receiving support from Apple engineers, the company will be opening developer labs in Cupertino, London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo. Development teams can also apply for developer kits to accelerate the building, iteration, and testing process on Apple Vision Pro.
Susan Prescott, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide Developer Relations, expressed the significance of Apple Vision Pro, stating that it “redefines what’s possible on a computing platform.” She highlighted how developers can utilize familiar frameworks like Xcode, SwiftUI, RealityKit, ARKit, and TestFlight to create spatial computing apps. The vast range of immersion spans from windows with depth and 3D content to volumes that are viewable from any angle, and even spaces that fully immerse users in unbounded 3D environments.
The visionOS SDK and APIs provide developers with the tools they need to optimize 3D content for their visionOS apps and games. A new tool called Reality Composer Pro within Xcode allows developers to preview and prepare 3D models, animations, images, and sounds specifically for Vision Pro. Additionally, the visionOS simulator enables developers to explore and test various room layouts and lighting conditions.
Accessibility is a key focus for Apple, and all developer frameworks come with built-in support for the company’s innovative accessibility features. This ensures that spatial computing and visionOS apps are accessible to everyone.
Developers who have already previewed the visionOS SDK and APIs are excited about the potential of the platform. For example, Complete HeartX plans to use Apple Vision Pro to enhance medical education by providing hyper-realistic 3D models and animations for students. Algoriddim’s CEO mentioned that the djay app on Vision Pro allows users to mix music and apply real-time effects using eye and hand gestures, creating a fully featured DJ system. JigSpace highlighted the power of Apple Vision Pro in enabling effective communication through high-resolution CAD files, while PTC emphasized how manufacturers can collaborate on critical business problems by bringing interactive 3D content into the real world.
The visionOS SDK, updated Xcode, Simulator, and Reality Composer Pro are now available for Apple Developer Program members. Apple has also provided extensive technical documentation, new design kits, and updated human interface guidelines for visionOS. Developers can visit developer.apple.com/visionos to learn more about designing new app experiences for Apple Vision Pro and to apply for a developer kit.
Apple revolutionized personal technology and continues to lead the world in innovation across multiple platforms. With the introduction of Apple Vision Pro and the release of developer tools, the company aims to empower developers to create unparalleled spatial experiences for their users.
