Monday, 30 June 2025
30.6 C
Singapore
32.2 C
Thailand
21.4 C
Indonesia
29.1 C
Philippines

Meta expands virtual reality reach by sharing Horizon OS with external partners

Meta licenses its Horizon OS to third-party manufacturers, aiming to create a connected and inclusive virtual reality ecosystem.

Meta, the tech giant formerly known as Facebook, has embarked on an ambitious project to broaden the accessibility of its newly developed Horizon OS by allowing third-party manufacturers to integrate the operating system into their mixed-reality headsets. This move is aimed at creating a more inclusive and connected virtual reality ecosystem.

Meta has confirmed partnerships with notable tech companies, such as Lenovo and ASUS, to expand the Horizon OS’s reach. Lenovo plans to produce versatile headsets tailored for productivity, education, and entertainment. Meanwhile, ASUS is set to launch a gaming-focused headset under its esteemed Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand. These partnerships are geared towards diversifying the applications of mixed reality technologies and enhancing user engagement across various platforms.

Additionally, an exciting collaboration between Meta and Xbox will bring forth a special edition Quest headset. This device will feature Xbox branding and is expected to come bundled with an Xbox controller, alongside access to Xbox Cloud Gaming and the Xbox Game Pass, enriching the gaming experience for users.

Unified social features and developer support

One of the key aspects of the Horizon OS is its “social layer,” which includes unified profiles, avatars, friend networks, and virtual spaces that facilitate cross-platform connectivity. This feature is designed to allow users from different platforms to interact seamlessly, making the virtual experience more sociable and engaging.

Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, highlighted the company’s commitment to an open ecosystem in a recent Instagram post. He expressed his vision for Horizon OS to set a new standard for the next generation of mixed-reality headsets. In pursuit of this goal, Meta has lowered barriers for app developers on its platform, enabling them to more easily grow their businesses through enhanced content discovery and monetization opportunities. Additionally, Meta plans to incorporate the Google Play store into Horizon OS, further expanding the range of apps and services available to users.

Despite the excitement surrounding these developments, Zuckerberg acknowledged that building a comprehensive ecosystem of Horizon OS devices will likely take a few years. Specific details about the upcoming products remain under wraps, but the partnerships and plans laid out by Meta indicate a promising future for the expansion of the virtual reality landscape.

Meta’s strategy to open its Horizon OS to other manufacturers starkly contrasts with the more closed ecosystems seen in other tech giants, notably Apple, signalling a strategic pivot towards inclusivity in the tech industry.

Hot this week

OPPO unveils Watch X2 Mini in Singapore with pro-grade health and fitness features

OPPO launches the Watch X2 Mini in Singapore with advanced health tracking, 60-hour battery life, and stylish design.

GitLab and IBM launch unified DevSecOps solution for mainframes

GitLab and IBM launch GitLab Ultimate for IBM Z to modernise mainframe development with CI/CD, integrated DevSecOps, and hybrid cloud support.

Apple’s AirTag 2 is nearly ready, but the launch may be delayed until autumn

AirTag 2 is nearly ready, but a new report suggests Apple may delay the launch to autumn alongside the iPhone 17.

Sharp launches AQUOS wish5 smartphone in Singapore with focus on safety and sustainability

Sharp launches AQUOS wish5 in Singapore, featuring vibration SOS alert, military-grade durability, and eco-conscious materials.

Xiaomi launches Smart Band 10 and brings POP Run 2025 to Singapore

Xiaomi unveils Smart Band 10 in Singapore with wellness features and fashion upgrades, alongside the return of POP Run 2025 on 12 July.

Cheapest SIM-only plans in Singapore 2025: Flexible, contract-free mobile data

Compare the cheapest SIM-only plans in Singapore for 2025, with up to 1TB data, 5G access, roaming, and no-contract options from S$8/month.

Android 16 to alert you if your phone connects to a fake cell tower

Android 16 will warn you if your phone connects to a fake tower, helping protect your calls, texts, and location from silent spying.

Runway moves into gaming with new AI platform Game Worlds

Runway launches Game Worlds, an AI platform aiming to reshape game creation and expand its success from film into the gaming industry.

TikTok trials new ‘bulletin boards’ to rival Instagram’s broadcast channels

TikTok is testing bulletin boards, a new feature similar to Instagram's broadcast channels, for direct creator-to-fan updates.

Related Articles

Popular Categories