Meta has announced that its Meta Quest devices will soon be powered by Meta Horizon OS, an open operating system available to third-party hardware manufacturers. This move aims to create a more inclusive ecosystem for developers to build and reach their audiences. “We’re working with leading global technology companies to bring this new ecosystem to life,” Meta stated.
One notable collaboration is with Microsoft to create a limited-edition Meta Quest headset inspired by Xbox. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed on Instagram that this Xbox-themed headset will include Xbox controllers and Game Pass, allowing users to start gaming immediately on a large virtual screen.
Microsoft, which previously shut down its own mixed reality division in December 2023, is now partnering with Meta. Initially launched in 2017 as a competitor to Oculus (which Meta later acquired), Microsoft’s renewed interest in mixed reality highlights the growing synergy between these tech giants.
Meta is also partnering with other companies, including Asus and Lenovo, to develop mixed reality devices for gaming, learning, and entertainment. S Y Hsu, co-CEO of Asus, expressed excitement about building the next generation of gaming headsets with Meta Horizon OS, aiming to cater to the passionate gaming community seeking high-performance hardware.
