Meta Opens Horizon OS to Third-Party VR Hardware Makers

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has announced that it is opening its Meta Horizon operating system to third-party VR hardware makers. The move aims to expand the VR ecosystem and accelerate innovation in the mixed reality market.

Meta is partnering with leading global technology companies like Lenovo, Microsoft, and Asus to create a new ecosystem of VR devices powered by the Meta Horizon OS.

The Meta Horizon OS combines core technologies for mixed reality experiences, including inside-out tracking, hand/eye/face/body tracking, and blending digital and physical worlds. By making this operating system available to other hardware manufacturers, Meta hopes to increase the adoption and accessibility of VR technology, making it more widely available to consumers.

Asus is developing a new performance gaming headset based on the Meta Horizon OS, while Lenovo plans to create VR devices focused on productivity, learning, and entertainment. Additionally, Meta is collaborating with Microsoft to release an Xbox-branded limited-edition Meta Quest headset.

Why this matters: Meta's decision to open up its Horizon OS represents a significant shift in the VR industry, potentially leading to a more diverse and competitive market. This move could accelerate innovation and consumer adoption of VR technology, similar to how the Android operating system spurred growth in the smartphone market.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated, "By opening up our operating system to third-party hardware makers, we're enabling more companies to participate in the VR ecosystem and bring new devices to market. This will lead to more choice for consumers and faster innovation in the industry."

The first devices from Asus, Lenovo, and Microsoft are expected to be available starting in 2024. Meta is also making changes to its Quest app store, including making the App Lab section more visible to users. Developers will have access to the Meta Horizon OS technologies and can reach audiences through the Meta Horizon Store.

Key Takeaways

• Meta opens its Horizon OS to 3rd-party VR hardware makers.
• Aims to expand VR ecosystem and accelerate mixed reality innovation.
• Partners with Lenovo, Microsoft, Asus to create new VR devices.
• Horizon OS combines core mixed reality technologies like tracking.
• Shift could spur VR growth, similar to Android in smartphones.