Hajra Naz
After nearly two years of hesitation, YouTube has officially launched a dedicated app for the Apple Vision Pro, marking a significant shift in its strategy for Apple’s mixed-reality headset.
When the Apple Vision Pro first debuted, YouTube chose not to build a native app. Instead, it directed users to access the platform through Safari, relying on a web-based experience. That decision meant viewers missed out on key features — most notably offline downloads — limiting the headset’s usefulness for travel or situations without reliable internet access.
In the absence of an official app, third-party alternatives such as Juno briefly surfaced on visionOS, but were ultimately removed for violating YouTube’s Terms of Service.
That changes today.
With the new native visionOS app, users can stream standard videos and YouTube Shorts on a massive, theater-style virtual screen within a fully immersive environment. The experience is designed specifically for spatial computing, rather than being adapted from the web.
One of the standout additions is a dedicated Spatial tab, where users can browse 3D, VR180, and 360-degree videos. For those using the latest Apple Vision Pro models powered by the M5 chip, the app also supports 8K playback, offering a noticeable jump in visual fidelity.
The app also takes advantage of gesture controls built into visionOS, allowing users to resize windows, scrub through videos, and navigate content with intuitive hand movements.
The timing is notable. YouTube previously appeared reluctant to invest heavily in a native visionOS experience, likely waiting to see whether Apple’s headset would gain meaningful traction. In contrast, major streaming platforms such as Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, and Peacock rolled out native apps shortly after launch.
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What makes the rollout even more interesting is that it arrives as enthusiasm around the headset has cooled. Although the Apple Vision Pro introduced Apple Intelligence-powered features nearly a year ago, reports suggest engagement has been modest.
Recent estimates indicate that shipments fell to roughly 45,000 units in Q4 2025. According to the Financial Times, Apple even paused production amid weaker-than-expected demand and scaled back marketing efforts in key regions.
Still, YouTube’s arrival on visionOS signals a renewed commitment to the platform. The app is now live on the visionOS App Store and supports both M2 and M5 chip models.
