A recent Instagram post by Zuckerberg has sent ripples through the tech world, potentially shaping the future of VR headsets and propelling the metaverse into a faster evolution.
The groundbreaking announcement reveals Meta's decision to open-source the mixed-reality operating system initially created for the Quest 3 and previous Quest VR headsets, aiming to broaden the ecosystem by collaborating with new partners.
Dubbed Horizon OS, Meta engineered this platform using the Android Open Source Project framework. Now, Meta intends to offer its XR-optimized iteration to other manufacturers for integration into their hardware solutions.
While specific details remain scarce, Meta's blog hints at notable collaborations. Asus ROG is focusing on a high-performance gaming headset, Lenovo is delving into a productivity-focused headset, and Meta and Microsoft are teaming up for a special edition Quest headset "inspired by Xbox."
Zuckerberg envisions a future where various companies develop specialized devices tailored for distinct purposes like productivity, fitness, media consumption, or immersive 2D gaming on expansive virtual screens. A dedicated VR headset targeting simulations could gain a competitive edge by leveraging Horizon OS.
Alongside this strategic shift, Meta is rebranding its Quest app store as the Horizon Store. Users on the Meta Horizon OS platform will gain access to a wider array of compatible apps within this revamped store, which is steadily expanding its content offerings.
In a bid to enhance early-stage software visibility, Meta's App Lab is receiving upgrades to facilitate easier discovery of games and applications still in development.
Notably, Zuckerberg hinted at Meta's willingness to integrate Google's Play Store into Horizon OS, potentially unlocking access to a broader range of Android applications for Quest 3, Quest 2, and Quest Pro users. However, certain apps reliant on Google Play Services may require additional steps for compatibility.
Meta's overarching ambition is to position itself as the open-source alternative to Apple's Vision Pro, aspiring to become the "Android" equivalent within the realm of XR headsets. Concurrently, Google's collaboration with Samsung indicates a shared vision for an official Android XR operating system on the horizon.
Whether one embraces or questions the concept, the metaverse landscape is once again ablaze with innovation, with Meta aiming to lead the charge in shaping these transformative platforms.
https://form.feathery.io/to/7HmCRi
https://form.feathery.io/to/SRaB2t
https://form.feathery.io/to/vHvCAS
https://form.feathery.io/to/s2cHVR
https://form.feathery.io/to/PZibvI
https://form.feathery.io/to/lIrJl6
https://form.feathery.io/to/d1x2SV
https://form.feathery.io/to/sZ3Llu
https://muluznews.blogspot.com
https://cretakorslet.unicornplatform.page/blog/el-metaverso-esta-de-vuelta