Meta, previously known as Facebook, has launched its licensing program for its headset operating system, now called Horizon OS. The company aims to make the platform more accessible to developers and users by allowing hardware manufacturers to build devices using Horizon OS. Additionally, Meta is expanding its efforts to promote alternative app stores, such as its experimental App Lab store, and has even expressed interest in collaborating with Google to incorporate the Play Store into Horizon OS.
One of the key features of Horizon OS is the Horizon social layer, a virtual world reminiscent of popular games like Roblox and The Sims. Meta plans to monetize this social network through advertising and e-commerce integration. However, the company has yet to disclose specific details regarding the business terms of the Horizon OS license, except for the requirement to use Qualcomm chips in devices running the operating system.
CEO Mark Zuckerberg envisions Horizon OS powering a variety of devices, from lightweight headsets optimized for productivity to immersive entertainment-focused devices with high-resolution OLED screens. He has emphasized Meta’s commitment to creating an open platform that contrasts with Apple’s more closed ecosystem. Zuckerberg sees Horizon OS as the Android equivalent in the virtual and augmented reality space, drawing parallels to how Microsoft catalyzed the early PC market by licensing Windows.
Zuckerberg’s vision for Meta’s future revolves around building a robust ecosystem of partnerships to drive innovation in virtual and augmented reality technologies within the metaverse. By positioning Horizon OS as a platform for collaboration and openness, Meta hopes to establish itself as a key player in shaping the next generation of computing. Through strategic partnerships and a focus on developer accessibility, Meta aims to position itself in direct competition with Apple and other major tech companies in the realm of immersive technologies.