Apple is taking applications for Vision Pro developer kits

Apple announced that developers can now apply to get a Vision Pro headset on the company’s website.

In addition to the Vision Pro headset, the dev kit also includes help setting up the device, code-level support requests, and “check-ins” with Apple experts about designing and developing an app for visionOS.

The company will prioritize applicants who are creating an app that “takes advantage of visionOS features and capabilities” — so, possibly not the folks at Netflix, which is reportedly planning to offer an unmodified iPad app on the Vision Pro at launch.

To apply, Apply says you must be an Account Holder in the Apple Developer Program, where you can then specify your team’s development skills and existing apps. Sun Apps CEO Dylan McDermott also tweeted the details of Apple’s policy about securing the devices — essentially, anyone given one is expected to keep it entirely out of sight and locked securely away from all others at all times.

“You must ensure that unauthorized persons (including any family, friends, or household employees) do not access, view or handle the DK.” Apple has similar policies in place for other limited-access hardware it gives out, like the Security Research Device iPhones, but this set of rules is even longer and more detailed.

Apple is also holding Vision Pro developer labs in Cupertino, London, Munich, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo, which you can apply to on Apple’s website. It has also released a compatibility checklist that should help developers ensure their app is ready for visionOS.

Apple is trying to make it easy to bring iOS and iPadOS apps to the Vision Pro headset, as it will automatically port over apps without developers having to change anything. However, developers are free to refine their apps for visionOS, as well as create new ones. The Apple Vision Pro will start at $3,499 and is set for release early next year in the US.

Update July 24th, 3:41PM ET: Added more notes about Apple’s loaner policy.