Apple‘s new augmented reality headset, Vision Pro, makes wireless connectivity a priority. But for developers needing to compile graphics-intensive apps or transfer large project files, wireless transfers may not cut it. Enter Apple’s new Developer Strap accessory, announced this week.

The $299 Developer Strap snaps onto the Vision Pro, replacing the standard right audio strap. But rather than just piping sound, the Developer Strap adds a key feature Vision Pro lacks: a USB-C port for wired data transfer.

According to Apple, the accessory enables faster compiling and debugging of visionOS apps by avoiding wireless networks. The Developer Strap also packs a built-in speaker to replace Vision Pro’s displaced audio component.

So why sell a $299 accessory just to add a USB-C port? Apple says Vision Pro’s complex 3D apps require more bandwidth than Wi-Fi can consistently handle.

For now, the Developer Strap is only available to registered U.S. developers via Apple’s website – not its stores. And average consumers are excluded entirely. It seems Apple isn’t ready to fully embrace wired connectivity in its long-awaited AR headset.

The specialized strap underscores Apple’s forward-looking approach. But for a headset already costing nearly $3,500, paying $299 more for a crucial missing feature may leave some developers frustrated. Still, for those aiming to push visionOS’ cutting-edge 3D graphics to the limit, the convenience may be worth the steep price of admission.

Update 9:14 am ET: Added Developer Strap image.