Apple Vision Pro Gains Support from Major Chinese Retailers
Apple Vision Pro Gains Support from Major Chinese Retailers
Apple Inc. has secured the backing of China's top online retailers, Taobao and JD.com, for its mixed-reality Vision Pro headset as it prepares for sale this Friday. This development is crucial for the $3,500 headset, which has had a challenging start in the US market.
Taobao, operated by Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., plans to offer virtual experiences such as test drives of Xiaomi cars and makeup simulations through its native app for the Vision Pro headset. JD.com, a direct competitor, has introduced JD.Vision, an app designed to help users virtually place products in their homes, utilizing an AI chatbot for assistance.
App support is deemed essential for the Vision Pro's market performance. The device did not fare well initially; it faced a lukewarm reception in the US, leading to Netflix Inc. opting out of developing a customized app. Instead, Netflix directs users to use the Safari browser to access its content on the headset. In contrast, Tencent Video, a prominent streaming service in China, has confirmed support for the Vision Pro.
Amazon.com Inc. also has not developed a dedicated app, but the early adoption by Alibaba and JD.com might provide the momentum needed for a successful launch. The Vision Pro is scheduled for debut in China, Japan, and Singapore on June 28, following its initial US release in February.
Despite the Vision Pro sparking initial interest, resulting in a high sales premium for imported units, its popularity waned quickly. Within weeks, the device was available in Hong Kong stores for less than its US retail price. So far, it has not managed to achieve notable sales figures.
With the addition of China’s largest online retailers to its app ecosystem, Apple Inc. is striving to bolster the Vision Pro’s appeal in these new markets, potentially rejuvenating its sales trajectory.