The long-rumored Apple AR/VR headset is likely to launch later this year — and we’ve got a fresh batch of leaks on app development for it, suggesting everyone will be able to create augmented reality experiences on this device. .
According to sources who spoke to The Information (via MacRumors), Apple is working on SDKs to make the app creation process as straightforward as possible. The more applications are created, the more attractive the headset.
These tools mean that even consumers can create their own apps through Siri, the report says: so you can just describe the experience you want to see in augmented reality, and Siri will interpret your commands and build them for you.
Health and wellness
One example mentioned in the article is the ability to create an app that shows virtual animals roaming around the room, just by describing them to Siri. No programming or computer graphic design skills are required to put it together.
It’s worth noting that the information in the story dates back to 2021, so it might be a little outdated at this point – and clearly unconfirmed and unofficial to begin with. However, it makes sense that Apple would want to make developing apps as easy as possible.
The report also states that Apple is working on AR content for the headset, prioritizing health and wellness. One possible use for the device is as a meditation aid, allowing users to sit in digitally generated scenes and calm down of their choice.
Analysis: follow the trend
If the details in this report from The Information are correct, Apple is following a trend when it comes to making its AR developer tools as accessible as possible — with the ultimate goal being to get as much user engagement as possible.
Those with kids at home are likely familiar with Roblox, the online gaming platform that makes it as easy to design and build experiences as it is to play them. Apple could aim for something similar here.
And then there is, of course, the exceptionally successful Minecraft: another game that is also a platform for creating new games and environments. The appeal of Roblox and Minecraft is not only in their nature, but also in what you can do with them.
If Apple is going to get a large number of people to pay for an AR/VR headset (or a mixed reality headset, if you prefer), a wide range of apps will be required — and that might be the perfect way to ensure it.
- Apple’s AR/VR plans have been teased out by referring to “realityOS” in the App Store code