In comparison to the iPhone and iPad, Apple Vision Pro offers a relatively small selection of apps in its App Store. Nonetheless, developers are pushing the limits of the device with innovative projects, one of which is the Formula 1 application called “Lapz.” Sadly, it appears that this app may not make its way into the App Store.
F1 App for Vision Pro Developed, but…
For those who aren’t aware, Lapz is an application allowing Apple Vision Pro users to experience F1 races on a virtual big screen while simultaneously viewing driver positions on an interactive 3D model. This app stemmed from a concept video created by VFX artist John LePore, showcasing the potential of the Vision Pro.
Currently, Lapz has been distributed through TestFlight as its developers aim to refine the app before making it broadly accessible. The app generated significant buzz since its beta release. However, as reported by UploadVR, it seems like the excitement has come to a halt.
The app has been requested to be removed from TestFlight, not by Apple, but by the Formula One Group. The probable cause is the unauthorized use of F1 content and branding, despite the app utilizing web views for users to access the official F1TV stream.
The Lapz team is in the process of “securing a digital license” to reinstate the app. However, for the moment, Lapz has been taken off TestFlight, and users will not be able to access the app starting February 8 when the current build expires. The developers express intentions to license the app to other motorsport organizations should they fail to negotiate a deal with Formula One Group.
While Formula One Group has the authority to request the app’s removal, it is regrettable that Vision Pro users are losing yet another streaming option for their headset. Just last month, the widely used YouTube client “Juno” for Vision Pro was also removed from the App Store following a request from Google.
It’s important to highlight that neither F1 nor YouTube provides official apps for visionOS.
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