Apple Expands Development Options by Integrating visionOS Support into Open-source Game Engine

In an unusual move, Apple is integrating visionOS support directly into the Godot open-source game engine. This step broadens the toolkit available for developers aiming to create content for their headsets.

Much like popular engines such as Unity and Unreal, Godot offers a suite of tools for crafting real-time games and applications. However, Godot stands out as a fully open-source platform, which means anyone can use it to develop and distribute games free of charge. Its open-source nature also allows developers to contribute enhancements and bug fixes for the benefit of the entire community.

Apple’s decision to incorporate visionOS support into Godot marks a unique step for the company, enabling developers to craft and share Vision Pro content using the engine.

Recently, Apple software engineer Ricardo Sanchez-Saez announced plans to add visionOS support to Godot as an open-source contribution. He noted the feature would roll out in two phases: initially allowing Godot-built games to run in flat windows on visionOS, followed by support for creating fully immersive visionOS experiences.

The open-source integration process means it will take a while for Apple’s input to become part of Godot’s official version, with no concrete timeline for project completion just yet.

With this addition, Godot joins other platforms like Unity, Unreal Engine, and Apple’s own Xcode and Reality Composer Pro, expanding the options for developers working on Vision Pro projects.

Furthermore, Godot is already a versatile tool for building apps on major VR platforms such as Quest and PC VR, enhancing its appeal to developers.