Google released an official YouTube app for Apple's Vision Pro today, ending a two-year wait for native video support on the mixed reality headset.
The Vision Pro launched in February 2024 without dedicated YouTube or Netflix apps, forcing users to access content through Safari or third-party alternatives. According to multiple reports, Google had previously stated a Vision Pro app was "on our roadmap" but suggested users rely on web browsers in the interim.
The new visionOS app includes standard YouTube features like subscriptions, watch history, and playlists. It supports native playback of regular videos, Shorts vertical content, and spatial formats including 3D, 360-degree, and 180-degree immersive videos.
Third-party YouTube apps like Tubular Pro and the now-defunct Juno filled the gap during the two-year absence. Christian Selig, developer of the Apollo Reddit app, created Juno shortly after the Vision Pro's initial launch, but Apple removed it from the App Store in October 2024 after Google complained.
Vision Pro users can now watch 8K videos on M5-powered devices through the official app. The experience previously lacked immersive support for 3D and 360-degree content when accessed via Safari browser.
Google's decision to launch the YouTube app coincides with its Android XR ecosystem development and Samsung's Galaxy XR headset partnership. Samsung and Google spent the last two years reverse-engineering the Vision Pro, according to CNBC reports from October 2025.
The YouTube app rollout marks a significant step for visionOS platform maturity as Apple continues developing hardware with broader market appeal.
One of the device's most compelling use cases remains video consumption, making native YouTube support essential for mainstream adoption.
