Meta Rebrands Quest Software Platform to Meta Horizon OS
Meta, known for its immersive computing technology, is rebranding its Quest software platform to Meta Horizon OS. This move is part of Meta’s ongoing effort to expand its presence and enhance its partnerships with third-party headset manufacturers. The platform will be available for use by headsets from a range of manufacturers, who will display a “Built with Meta Horizon OS” sticker on their packaging. These third-party headsets will have access to Meta’s core software, platform services, tracking and mixed reality technology, and store. Users will require a Meta account to experience the full functionality of the headsets.
Third-Party Headsets Powered by Meta Horizon OS
Meta’s up-and-coming horizon OS has already captured the attention of two notable third-party headset companies:
- ASUS: The renowned technology company ASUS will be launching a “performance gaming headset” under its Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand, utilizing the Meta Horizon OS.
- Lenovo: Giant electronics manufacturer Lenovo plans to release a line of headsets tailored for “productivity, learning, and entertainment” using the Meta Horizon OS.
Additionally, in an exciting development, Meta and LG announced an XR strategic collaboration in February, hinting at LG’s possible entry into the Meta Horizon OS ecosystem.
Concepts of Meta Horizon OS headsets from ASUS’s ROG brand (left) and Lenovo (right).
Use Case-Optimized Meta Horizon OS Headsets
Meta CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, envisions third-party Meta Horizon OS headsets optimized for specific use cases, including:
- A lightweight headset that provides an optimal work experience when paired with a computer on a desk.
- A headset solely focused on immersive entertainment, offering the highest resolution OLED screens for an exceptional movie and video-watching experience.
- A gaming-oriented headset with extensive support for various peripherals and haptics.
- An exercise-centric headset that is extra-light and features sweat-wicking materials with a focus on fitness activities.
Concepts of Meta Horizon OS headsets optimized for media viewing (left) and fitness (right).
Meta’s Collaboration with Microsoft’s Xbox Division
Meta has joined forces with Microsoft’s Xbox division to create a “limited-edition Meta Quest” headset with Xbox branding. The concept image of this headset suggests that it will be a special version of Quest 3. The box will include an Xbox gamepad, enhancing the gaming experience for users.
Meta Horizon OS vs. Google’s Upcoming Android XR Platform
Recent developments in the VR space include Google’s attempt to persuade Meta to switch to its upcoming Android XR platform, instead of Horizon OS. However, Meta has decided to forge its own path and compete with Google head-on. The rebranding and collaboration with major companies in the industry serve as a major blow to Google’s ambitions in this space. Google’s XR platform is expected to be announced at the upcoming Google I/O event in three weeks.
Battle for Dominance in the XR Market
As Meta and Google vie for supremacy in the XR (Extended Reality) market, both companies are likely to fiercely compete with each other to convince third-party hardware manufacturers to adopt their respective platforms. The history of technology suggests that ultimately, only one open platform will prevail alongside Apple’s closed ecosystem. XR’s destiny hangs in the balance between Meta’s Horizon OS and Google’s Android XR.
