The long-rumored Apple AR/VR headset may finally launch later this year — and we’ve uncovered a new set of bugs in app development that suggest everyone will be able to create augmented reality experiences on the device.
According to sources (opens in a new tab) (pass mike rumors (opens in a new tab)), Apple is developing software development tools to make the application creation process as easy as possible. The more apps you build, the more compelling the headset will be.
These tools mean that even consumers can build their own apps with Siri: so you just describe the experience you want to see in augmented reality, and Siri will interpret your command and build it for you, the report says .
health and wellness
One example mentioned in the article is being able to build an app that shows a virtual animal walking around a room, simply by describing it to Siri. Putting them together requires no coding or computer graphic design skills.
It’s worth noting that the source of the information in the story is from 2021, so it might be a bit outdated at this stage – and it was clearly unverified and unofficial to begin with. However, it’s only logical that Apple would want to make app development as easy as possible.
The report also mentions that Apple is developing AR content for the headset with health as a priority. One potential use of the device is as a meditation aid, enabling users to sit in a digitally generated calming scene of their choice.
Analysis: Following 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 software developer tools as accessible as possible — with the ultimate goal of maximizing user engagement.
Those with kids at home might know Roblox, the online gaming platform that makes designing and building experiences as easy as playing them. Apple is likely aiming for something similar here.
And of course the very successful Minecraft: Another Game, which is also a platform for creating new games and environments. The appeal of Roblox and Minecraft is not just what they are, but what else they can do.
If Apple is going to convince large numbers of people to buy its AR/VR headset (or mixed reality headset, if you prefer), it will need a wide range of apps — and this might be the perfect way to ensure that.
