Meta’s letting Xbox, Lenovo, and Asus build new Quest metaverse hardware

As someone who has been following Meta’s (formerly Facebook) foray into virtual reality with great interest, I’m thrilled by the latest announcement regarding the opening of the Meta Horizon OS for third-party hardware and software development. This is a significant shift in Meta’s strategy, one that could potentially bring more competition and innovation to the VR space.

I’ve got some exciting news to share! Meta (formerly Facebook) has declared its intention to make the operating system behind their Quest series of mixed-reality gadgets accessible for external hardware and software development. In simpler terms, they’re inviting third parties to join in and expand the capabilities of this technology.

I’ve noticed some exciting developments coming our way. A fresh moniker graces the horizon: “Meta Horizon OS.” Moreover, we have a new label for our marketplace – the “Meta Horizon Store.” This change doesn’t stop there; Asus, Lenovo, and Microsoft’s Xbox brand are now proud partners on board.

Based on a Meta blog entry, each collaborator is set to team up with Meta in creating their unique mixed or virtual reality gadgets.

Asus’s Republic of Gamers is developing a “top-tier gaming headset,” with the specifics yet to be revealed. It might suggest advanced features for superior graphics and sound, primarily designed for immersive multiplayer experiences.

I’ve learned that Lenovo is set to create their own devices running on Meta Horizon OS, following their previous collaboration with Meta (formerly Facebook) in producing the Oculus Rift S headsets before the company’s rebranding into Meta and the Oculus division became known as Quest.

Microsoft’s Xbox label is collaborating with Meta to create a special edition Meta Quest headset with an Xbox theme. Contrary to speculation, there’s no evidence suggesting that Xbox will be releasing its own VR devices as competition for PlayStation VR. Based on the blog post, this partnership will build upon their previous collaboration, allowing users to experience Xbox games in a virtual reality setting on a flat 2D screen within the Meta Quest headset.

Meta has revealed plans to introduce an “App Lab” where smaller developers can publish their applications. This can be thought of as similar to the “indie game sections” or “arcades” found in various digital marketplaces, showcasing less expensive and less well-known titles.

“We’re beginning the process of removing the barriers between the Meta Horizon Store and App Lab, which lets any developer who meets basic technical and content requirements release software on the platform. App Lab titles will soon be featured in a dedicated section of the store on all our devices, making them easy for larger audiences to discover.”

2024-04-25 20:12

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