Apple Inc.’s first-generation mixed reality headset, Vision Pro, is set to launch on February 2, and it will come equipped with a suite of Microsoft Corporation’s apps. This move aligns with Apple’s vision of the headset as a productivity tool.
The Vision Pro will offer a range of Microsoft 365 apps, including Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Loop. These apps will not simply be replicas of their iPad counterparts but will feature tools specifically designed for the headset.
For example, PowerPoint will offer a custom immersive environment for users to practice presentations, while Excel will allow for quick document transfers using the headset’s pinch and drag functionality. Microsoft Word will include a focus mode to block distractions, and Teams will use the headset’s persona feature for digital avatars in work meetings.
Additionally, Vision Pro users can access Microsoft’s AI-powered Copilot service, enabling natural language instructions for tasks like creating drafts, summarizing documents, and generating PowerPoint presentations.
The inclusion of Microsoft 365 apps in the Vision Pro aligns with Apple’s positioning of the device as a productivity tool. This move could potentially position the Vision Pro as a viable alternative to traditional work devices like Macs and PCs, especially for users who rely heavily on Microsoft’s suite of productivity tools.
However, the Vision Pro’s app ecosystem has faced some challenges. Notably, Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify have decided not to launch their apps on the Vision Pro. This could limit the device’s appeal to users relying on these platforms for entertainment and content consumption.
On the other hand, Zoom Video Communications Inc. has unveiled a new application for the Vision Pro, aimed at enhancing hybrid collaboration. The app is set to be available from February 2, in time for the launch of the headset.
In conclusion, the Vision Pro’s inclusion of Microsoft 365 apps reinforces its positioning as a productivity tool. While it may face some limitations in terms of entertainment content, it has the potential to be a strong alternative for users who prioritize productivity and collaboration. With the launch just around the corner, it will be interesting to see how the market responds to Apple’s latest innovation in the mixed reality space.
