Meta Opens Up Operating System and Welcomes New Hardware Partners
Meta is making a significant move by opening up its Meta Quest operating system, now renamed Meta Horizon OS, to third-party hardware manufacturers. This strategic shift aims to broaden the appeal of Meta’s VR platform and position it as a more accessible alternative to Apple’s pricey Vision Pro headset.
Initial partners include Asus ROG, Lenovo, and Microsoft, which will release headsets powered by Qualcomm chips like the current Meta Quest devices. However, their designs may incorporate unique lens configurations or other hardware variations.
Evolving Software Ecosystem
Meta’s software ecosystem is also becoming more open. While App Lab software will now be discoverable through the primary Meta Store, the company has yet to mention sideloading. Nonetheless, this move indicates a shift towards more flexible software distribution options.
Meta’s spatial app framework, currently in development, aims to facilitate porting mobile software to Horizon and converting it to mixed reality experiences. While the timeline for the availability of such apps remains uncertain, developers can apply for access to the conversion toolchain.
Competing with Apple in Augmented Reality
Meta’s open-platform strategy could potentially turn the company into a force to be reckoned with in the augmented reality space, positioning it as a rival to Apple’s dominance. To further strengthen its position, Meta has also recently reduced the price of the Meta Quest 2 to $199, making it more affordable for a wider audience.
