YouTube’s Minimalist App for Apple Vision Pro: A Step Forward with Room for Improvement
The Apple Vision Pro, introduced in February 2024, initially lacked support from major streaming platforms, including YouTube. Users were limited to accessing YouTube content via the Safari browser or third-party applications. However, as of February 2026, YouTube has launched a native app for the Vision Pro, marking a significant development for users seeking a more integrated experience.
A Long-Awaited Arrival
Upon its release, the absence of a dedicated YouTube app for the Apple Vision Pro was notable. Users had to rely on web browsers or third-party solutions to access content. In October 2024, YouTube took action against Juno, a third-party app developed by Cristian Selig, leading to its removal from the App Store due to unspecified guideline violations. This move left users with limited options for accessing YouTube content on the Vision Pro.
In February 2024, YouTube indicated that a dedicated app for the Vision Pro was on the roadmap, but no specific timeline was provided. This left users anticipating an official solution.
Features and Functionality
The newly released YouTube app for the Apple Vision Pro mirrors the functionality of its iPad counterpart, with some adaptations for the spatial computing environment. Notably, it includes a spatial tab that provides access to 3D 360 and VR180 videos, catering to users interested in immersive content.
However, the app has limitations. The Shorts tab, for instance, is present but currently non-functional, displaying a blank screen. Additionally, the app lacks a native video player with a theater mode, which means users cannot enjoy 2D videos in an expansive, immersive format within the app. For such experiences, users are advised to continue using Safari or third-party applications like Television, which offer more versatile viewing options.
Performance and Content Quality
While the app supports 3D 360 and VR180 content, users have reported that even high-resolution videos, such as those in 8K, appear fuzzy due to compression. This affects the overall viewing experience, making it less immersive compared to other platforms. In contrast, Apple’s own Immersive Video content available through Apple TV and the Spatial Gallery offers superior immersion and detail, highlighting the disparity in content quality.
Conclusion
The introduction of a native YouTube app for the Apple Vision Pro is a positive development, providing users with a more integrated way to access content. However, the app’s current limitations suggest that there is room for improvement. Users seeking a more immersive and feature-rich experience may still need to rely on alternative methods until the app undergoes further enhancements.
