Apple releases developer tools for the OS 'visionOS' installed in the AR headset 'Vision Pro'

Apple has announced that it has started providing a software development kit (SDK) for the OS ' visionOS ' installed in the AR (augmented reality) headset ' Vision Pro '. Developers will be able to create augmented reality and mixed reality apps using frameworks like SwiftUI, RealityKit, and ARKit while working with tools like Apple's Xcode integrated development environment, simulators, and TestFlight.

Launch of developer tools to create spatial experiences for Apple Vision Pro - Apple (Japan)
https://www.apple.com/jp/newsroom/2023/06/developer-tools-to-create-spatial-experiences-for-apple-vision-pro-now-available/

Vision Pro is an AR headset announced at Apple's developer conference ' WWDC23 ' held on June 6, 2023. The following article summarizes the announcement about what kind of hardware Vision Pro is.

Apple announces the AR headset ``Vision Pro'', freeing you from the limitations of the display and allowing you to operate your favorite apps anywhere you like with your eyes, hands, and voice - GIGAZINE

Vision Pro is equipped with an OS specialized for AR headsets called 'visionOS'. This OS uses a new GUI that Apple calls ``spatial computing,'' which allows users to operate windows and applications floating in real space with their eyes and hands.

Developers enrolled in the Apple Developer Program can obtain the visionOS SDK to develop apps that run on this visionOS. In addition, when developing apps for visionOS, you can use tools used in traditional app development for iPhone and Mac, such as the Xcode integrated development environment and TestFlight.

Apple says, 'The visionOS SDK enables developers to use the powerful and unique capabilities of Vision Pro and visionOS to design entirely new app experiences across a variety of categories, including creativity, design, gaming, and more.' says.

In addition to existing tools such as the Xcode integrated development environment and TestFlight, Reality Composer Pro will be provided to developers. Reality Composer Pro is a new tool for visionOS app development that allows you to import and organize 3D assets such as materials, sounds, and models for visionOS apps in the Xcode integrated development environment.

According to Apple, you can actually test your developed apps at Apple's official labs in London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo, or at Apple's headquarters in Cupertino, California. However, you must reserve your test date and time in advance.

Furthermore, it seems that you can apply for a developer kit that allows you to repeatedly build and test apps on Vision Pro, but Apple has not disclosed the specific contents of the kit.

Apple says a series of test programs will be available in July 2023, but the exact date and process details are unknown at the time of writing.