Meta Launches Horizon OS to Unify AR/VR, Compete with Apple

Apr 22, 2024, 04:23 PM

Meta has announced the launch of Horizon OS, a new operating system aimed at unifying the augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) ecosystem. This initiative, described as an 'Android-style' hardware partnership, is designed to support Meta's mixed reality headset, Quest, and to open up the platform to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The move is seen as a strategic attempt by Meta to compete with Apple's OS exclusivity and to address the fragmentation in the VR industry. Industry reactions suggest that Horizon OS could significantly boost hardware innovation and adoption by making it easier for manufacturers to create XR devices without concerns about content availability or porting issues.