Apple enthusiasts eagerly await the highly anticipated Apple Vision Pro launch. This cutting-edge headset is marketed as the “Ultimate entertainment device” with a price tag that commands attention at $3,500 per unit. However, as the launch date draws near, there is disappointing news that some of the most popular entertainment apps will be absent from the device’s app store.
The absence of crucial streaming platforms like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify is sparking an outcry among users and making them question the completeness of the “Ultimate entertainment” promise.
Related: Apple Planning Vision Pro Launch by February 2024
A Void in Entertainment
As the highly-anticipated Apple Vision Pro launch approaches, Netflix has made it clear that it has no immediate plans to develop a dedicated app for Apple’s Vision Pro. Netflix also revealed no intentions to make its existing iPad app compatible with the device. As reported by Bloomberg, a Netflix representative mentioned, “Our members will be able to enjoy Netflix on the web browser on the Vision Pro, similar to how our members can enjoy Netflix on Macs.”
Spotify, a platform that has clashed publicly with Apple over app store practices, is also sitting out the Vision Pro launch. While Spotify has not officially announced plans for a dedicated Vision Pro app, the company declined to provide further comments on the matter.
Additionally, Google’s YouTube will be accessible on Vision Pro solely through its built-in web browser, with no dedicated app available. This news was entirely unexpected since YouTube has been a fixture on Apple devices since the debut of the original iPad in 2010.
Also Read: iPhone 16 Leaks and Rumours 2024: Everything You Need to Know So Far
Seeking Answers: Reasons Behind the Exclusion
The anticipation surrounding the Apple Vision Pro launch is tinged with questions as the absence of these major streaming apps raises numerous concerns. Yet, as of now, neither YouTube nor Spotify has offered specific reasons for their decision to opt out of supporting the $3,499 Vision Pro device. Some believe the ongoing dispute between Spotify and Apple over App Store policies may have influenced Spotify’s decision. However, an anonymous source familiar with the matter stated that the choice regarding the Vision Pro is unrelated to the ongoing dispute.
The exact reasons behind YouTube’s absence are still undisclosed. Users and industry analysts can only speculate about the motives behind these significant exclusions.
Entertainment Lineup and Pre-Orders: A Glimpse of What’s to Come
Despite the absence of these major players, the robust lineup of streaming apps on the Apple Vision Pro launch promises an immersive entertainment experience. Users can access platforms such as Disney+, ESPN+, Max, Discovery+, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock, Pluto TV, Tubi, Fubo, Crunchyroll, TikTok, NBA, MLB, and PGA Tour.
Additionally, Apple Vision Pro users will have the option to purchase or rent more than 150 3D-immersive movies, including blockbuster titles like “Avatar: The Way of Water”, “Dune”, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”, and “Avengers: Endgame”.
As part of the Apple Vision Pro launch strategy, pre-orders for the device commenced on Friday, Jan. 19. The anticipation is building as the device is set to become available at all U.S. Apple Store locations and the online Apple Store starting Friday, Feb. 2.
You Might Also Like: Apple Faces a New Tech Rival: An Emerging Tech Mogul LoveFrom
Competing in the VR and AR Market
The Apple Vision Pro is the company’s most significant product debut since the 2015 Apple Watch. This product could compete with other virtual and augmented reality products in the market. For instance, Meta’s more budget-friendly Quest 3, priced at $500, is a strong competitor.
Interestingly, other key iPad apps from Meta, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, are also not currently set to work on the Vision Pro. However, this situation could change before the device’s launch, or developers may be planning dedicated versions for the innovative visionOS operating system that powers the Vision Pro.
Impact of Exclusivity on Entertainment Potential
The Apple Vision Pro launch is meant to bring a complete video, games, and entertainment platform. However, the absence of YouTube, Spotify, and Netflix on Apple Vision Pro is a significant setback for Apple’s ambitious vision. As the launch date approaches, users and industry observers express concerns over the limitations of excluding major streaming apps on Apple’s groundbreaking headset. The tech community eagerly awaits further developments, hoping for solutions to enhance Vision Pro’s claim as the “Ultimate entertainment device”.
Read Next: Microsoft Briefly Outshines Apple as the World’s Most Valuable Company