As Apple’s Vision Pro mixed-reality headset prepares to make its debut, there is much anticipation surrounding the success of this highly anticipated product launch. With developers playing a crucial role in its reception, the availability of custom-made apps has become a focal point, as some major platforms like Netflix, Spotify, and YouTube have chosen to hold off on offering bespoke apps.
However, Microsoft recently announced a significant boost to Vision Pro’s appeal. The tech giant revealed that its suite of productivity-focused Microsoft 365 apps, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, and Loop, along with its AI companion Copilot, will be accessible through the Vision Pro App Store starting this Friday.
It is worth noting that these apps are not mere ports of existing versions; they have been meticulously designed to harness the capabilities of Apple’s Vision Pro headset fully.
Enhanced features for productivity
Microsoft’s commitment to optimising its apps for the Vision Pro is evident in the thoughtful integration of features that enhance productivity and user experience. For instance, PowerPoint’s custom Immersive Environment allows users to practice presentations as if they were in front of a live audience, offering a unique and immersive rehearsal experience.
In the case of Excel, the software has been adapted to work seamlessly with the Vision Pro’s “infinite canvas.” This innovation moves digital content beyond the confines of a traditional 2D setting, enabling users to interact with data as if it were part of their physical environment.
On the other hand, Word benefits from the Vision Pro’s Immersive Environments and Word’s focus mode, providing a distraction-free environment for users to immerse themselves fully in their documents.
Seamless video calls and AI assistance
The Vision Pro headset also facilitates video calls through Microsoft Teams. During these calls, participants will see digital avatars of one another’s entire faces generated from scans. This feature is made possible by the Vision Pro’s advanced “persona” tool, enhancing the quality and realism of virtual meetings.
Moreover, users can tap into the power of AI with Microsoft’s Copilot services via the Vision Pro headset. This allows natural voice commands to draft documents, perform edits, create summaries, and more.
Gabriel Valdez Malpartida of Microsoft expressed the company’s commitment to delivering excellent Microsoft 365 experiences across various platforms and devices, including the Apple Vision Pro. He highlighted the seamless integration of these apps into the Vision Pro’s spatial computing environment, allowing users to work side by side at any scale for enhanced multitasking capabilities.
A win-win for users
This collaboration brings numerous advantages for users. With its cutting-edge mixed-reality technology, Apple’s Vision Pro becomes even more versatile and appealing with the inclusion of Microsoft 365 apps. Seamlessly accessing and working on documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and emails in a mixed-reality environment is a game-changer for productivity.
Moreover, Microsoft users who are already deeply entrenched in the Windows and Office ecosystem can now experience the benefits of their familiar tools in a new and immersive way. Integrating apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams ensures that Microsoft enthusiasts can use their preferred software seamlessly on the Vision Pro headset.
Wrapping up
As Apple’s Vision Pro prepares to hit the market, including Microsoft 365 apps adds significant value and functionality to the mixed-reality headset. With tailored features fully utilising the Vision Pro’s capabilities, users can expect enhanced productivity and immersive experiences when using popular Microsoft applications. This collaboration between Apple and Microsoft underscores their commitment to delivering innovative and seamless user experiences across various platforms and devices.
