Netflix, YouTube and Spotify won't develop dedicated apps for Apple's Vision Pro, nor will they allow their iPad apps to run on the hardware. At the moment, some of the world's largest technology companies are taking a wait-and-see approach to Apple's new hardware, refusing to provide any app support. Netflix was the first to confirm that it would not launch native or iPad ported apps on Apple Vision Pro, and now two well-known companies have joined the ranks.
According to Bloomberg, both YouTube and Spotify have confirmed that their apps will not be available on Vision Pro, and the two companies recommend that users use Safari, which is pre-installed in the headset, to access their websites instead.
Spotify, YouTube and Netflix are the world's largest streaming services. However, it's unclear whether the companies' apps not being on the platform will cause potential buyers to bypass the platform.
Since Apple Vision Pro is an expensive product starting at $3,499 and only serves a small set of usage scenarios, users who buy the device will not miss out on these services. Developers and Apple fans will likely be first in line, and they may all already use competing Apple platforms such as Apple TV+, Apple Podcasts and Apple Music.
Most other third-party streaming services are embracing Vision Pro, at least porting the iPad app. The Disney+ app will launch viewing content on the platform in full 3D environments, such as on Tatooine or Scare Floor.
The news isn't surprising, as Google is typically slow, if not dismissive, to adopt new Apple platforms or features. Spotify is in a similar situation, except it's generally more openly hostile to Apple and its business model.
VisionPro will be available for pre-order on January 19th, with prices starting at $3,499 and shipping on February 2nd.