According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Netflix has no plans to create a native app for Apple’s upcoming mixed reality headset, the Vision Pro. Instead, the company will allow its existing iPad app to run on the device without any modifications. This decision may be due to the fact that developers have two choices when it comes to building software for the Vision Pro: either adapting their existing app or creating a new one specifically for the device. Netflix has chosen to go with the former option.
While it remains to be seen whether the iPad app will be sufficient for users, Gurman speculates that it may not offer the same level of functionality as native streaming Apps developed specifically for the Vision Pro. The lack of native support from Netflix could be a disappointment for users who expect a seamless and feature-rich experience on Apple’s first TV-like device.
Gurman highlights Netflix’s lack of support in the context of a larger issue Apple may face in convincing high-profile developers to create apps for the Vision Pro. The headset is a new platform for the company, and factors such as its high starting price of $3,500, projected limited sales in the first year, and the historical challenges faced by Apple’s main competitor, Meta, with third-party apps may make it difficult to attract developers.
However, when the Vision Pro launches, it will already have access to a vast library of iPad apps that can run on the device without any modifications. Additionally, it has been confirmed that Disney Plus will be available on the Vision Pro, as announced during the WWDC 2023 keynote. Zoom and Microsoft have also committed to developing software for the headset. Gurman speculates that apps specifically designed for the Vision Pro may come at a higher price point compared to their iPhone and iPad counterparts. He suggests that most apps on the platform could cost around $20, with professional apps potentially ranging from $50 to $250. Similarly, he predicts that some games on the Vision Pro could be priced between $40 and $60, catering to the early adopter tech enthusiast crowd.
In conclusion, Netflix’s decision not to create a native app for the Vision Pro could be a letdown for some users, as it may result in a less optimal streaming experience. However, Apple will have a large library of iPad apps available for the device upon launch, and the company has secured commitments from other high-profile developers. The pricing of apps on the Vision Pro may be higher compared to other Apple devices, reflecting the headset’s premium positioning and targeting of early adopters.
