YouTube launches native Vision Pro app with 8K streaming
Summary
YouTube's new Vision Pro app lets users stream videos, including 8K and 360° content, directly on the headset. It's a standalone app designed for spatial computing.
YouTube launches standalone Vision Pro app
YouTube is now available as a native app on Apple Vision Pro. The free app, called YouTube for Vision OS, launched today and ends the headset's reliance on the Safari web browser for accessing the platform.
Users can log into their existing accounts to stream standard videos, 180-degree and 360-degree videos, and YouTube Shorts. The app supports 8K video streaming for Vision Pro users and allows YouTube Premium subscribers to download videos directly to the headset for offline viewing.
Ending a months-long wait
Google confirmed a native Vision Pro app was "on our roadmap" in early 2024. Until now, the only way to watch YouTube on the $3,500 headset was through its web browser, which lacked native integration and features.
The development team built a new design system specifically for spatial computing. "We needed something that responds to different spaces, volumes and use cases," YouTube senior UX designer Brendan Polley told Apple.
A redesigned experience for spatial computing
The app isolates core interface elements—like the play button, comments, and like/dislike buttons—so they can adapt to any layout or window placement in the user's environment. This is a shift from traditional responsive design that only accounts for different screen sizes.
Key features of the new YouTube for Vision OS app include:
- Full access to a user's YouTube account and library
- Support for immersive 180° and 360° video formats
- The ability for Premium members to download videos
- 8K video playback compatibility
- A native interface designed for Vision Pro's environments
Testing the new immersive content
The app's launch coincides with new 360-degree video content from the Milano Cortina winter Olympics on NBC's YouTube channel. These videos are designed to showcase the headset's immersive capabilities.
Early impressions confirm the app works as intended, providing a native, integrated YouTube experience that was previously missing. The availability of a dedicated app is a significant step for the Vision Pro's content ecosystem, which has seen slow adoption from major streaming platforms.
Related Articles
Russia's Supreme Court Upholds $1.2 Quintillion Fine Against Google
Russia's top court upheld a $1.2 quintillion fine against Google for not restoring blocked YouTube accounts, a sum vastly exceeding global GDP.
Apple Vision Pro still lacks a killer app two years after launch
The Apple Vision Pro is impressive tech with a sleek design and mind-blowing AR/VR demos. However, it's heavy, lacks a compelling "killer app" two years after launch, and feels isolating. Despite its potential, it struggles to justify its high price and frequent use.
Stay in the loop
Get the best AI-curated news delivered to your inbox. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.