Los Angeles, California – Meta, previously known as Facebook, is undergoing a significant rebranding effort, transitioning its Quest software platform to the new name of Meta Horizon OS. This move signifies a shift in the company’s strategy, as it opens up the platform to third-party headset manufacturers, allowing for greater collaboration within the virtual reality (VR) industry.
The rebranded Meta Horizon OS will offer third-party headset makers access to the same core software and platform services as Meta Quest headsets. This includes Meta’s advanced tracking and mixed reality technology, as well as access to the Meta Horizon Store. Users of these headsets will also need to have a Meta account similar to the requirements for Meta Quest headsets.
Already, two prominent companies have announced their plans to develop new headsets running on the Meta Horizon OS platform. ASUS, under its Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand, is working on a “performance gaming headset,” while Lenovo is focusing on a line of headsets for “productivity, learning, and entertainment.”
In a strategic collaboration, Meta and LG are also exploring the development of next-generation XR devices, hinting at the possibility of LG manufacturing a headset utilizing the Meta Horizon OS platform. This collaboration underscores Meta’s commitment to expanding its reach within the VR market and fostering innovation through partnerships with established hardware manufacturers.
Moreover, Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, envisions a future where third-party Meta Horizon OS headsets cater to specific use cases, such as immersive entertainment, gaming, and fitness. These tailored experiences aim to provide users with a diverse range of options based on their individual preferences and needs, further enhancing the overall VR experience.
The collaboration between Meta and Microsoft’s Xbox division to create a limited-edition Meta Quest headset with Xbox branding highlights the company’s continued efforts to diversify its product offerings and appeal to a wider audience. This partnership signifies a new era of collaboration between tech giants, potentially reshaping the landscape of the VR industry.
As Meta continues to expand its partnerships and offerings within the VR market, the company’s strategic decisions have implications not only for its competitors but also for the wider tech industry. With Google’s attempts to sway Meta towards its upcoming Android XR platform and Meta’s focus on building a robust XR ecosystem, the competition between these tech giants is expected to intensify in the coming years.
Ultimately, the future of XR platforms hinges on the decisions made by companies like Meta and Google as they vie for dominance in a rapidly evolving market. The industry’s evolution will likely see intense competition as companies strive to secure partnerships and market share, shaping the VR landscape for years to come.