Thursday, 24 April 2025
26.1 C
Singapore
29 C
Thailand
19 C
Indonesia
28.4 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

YouTrip adds a Malaysian Ringgit wallet to help you save more on JB trips

YouTrip now lets you store MYR and offers free JB shuttles and cashback to celebrate, making your trips across the Causeway more rewarding.

Tenable uncovers critical privilege escalation flaw in Google Cloud Composer

Tenable exposes a GCP vulnerability in Cloud Composer that allows privilege escalation through interdependent cloud services.

OpenAI introduces powerful new AI models with advanced image reasoning

OpenAI’s new o3 and o4-mini AI models bring powerful image reasoning and full tool access to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, and Team users.

Netflix raises subscription prices in Singapore again

Netflix again raises subscription prices in Singapore, with new rates for all plans and extra member slots.

Microsoft highlights growing AI-assisted scams and offers advice on how to stay safe

Microsoft’s latest report warns of rising AI-driven scams and outlines new tools and tips to help users stay safe online.

POCO launches entry-level C71 smartphone in Singapore with premium features

POCO launches the budget-friendly C71 smartphone in Singapore, offering premium design, enhanced cameras, and smooth performance at S$109.

NVIDIA uses AI to address climate, wildlife and disaster risks

NVIDIA’s AI tools support climate action, wildlife monitoring, and disaster risk mitigation, with uses spanning sea, land, sky and space.

Netflix raises subscription prices in Singapore again

Netflix again raises subscription prices in Singapore, with new rates for all plans and extra member slots.

GameMax unveils Blade Concept ATX case with bold design and powerful features

GameMax launches the Blade Concept ATX case, which features a striking blade design, RGB lighting, and support for high-end liquid-cooled PC builds.

Related Articles

Popular Categories