Tag: Meta

Meta is opening up its Meta Quest VR Headset Operating System to Third Party Developers.

Starting today, 22nd of April, 2024, Meta is opening its VR Operating System to developers. The name of the operating system is called Meta Horizon OS, it will be similar to operating system like Google Play Store and Apple App Store but for virtual reality developers.

The new open model operating system to virtual reality developers and makers like Asus, Lenovo and even an Xbox.

The Horizon OS is currently supported on all Meta Quest line for both VR and AR. Third party developers can now create virtual apps and games and upload to the Quest Store. Meta is planning to launch it's Horizon Store to third party developers.

According to Meta CEO and Founder, Mark Zuckerberg, Meta is working with companies like Asus, Lenovo, and Microsoft to kick start a new age for open model VR experience.

According to Meta, Asus is currently working on "performance based" VR gaming headset under its Republic of Gamers brand, Lenovo is working on Meta Horizon OS-compatible VR devices. The company hinted Lenovo focus will be on "productivity, learning, and entertainment." As for Xbox it's partnering with Meta to make a limited edition, "inspired by Xbox" product.

Speculations from tech enthusiasts predict the new devices may use Meta Chips, since its announce of entering the chip maker business.

According to Meta its Horizon OS would be easy for publishers to publish apps and App Lab developers will receive a dedicated Horizon Store section, similar to other apps stores.

There will also be a new framework for building mixed reality apps. Meta predicts hardware or software makers will create dedicated Virtual Reality devices and applications which will create and enabling use case experience.

The question left to ask is, how will Meta competitors respond?

The previous generation of the Meta VR headset, Meta Quest 2, is getting a large price drop.

The VR headset is dropping from $299 to $199. The model that will be affected is the Meta Quest 2 128 GB, which will now be the most affordable VR headset for anyone who wants a virtual experience.

Quest 2 was first released in 2020 for $299. During the inflation of 2022, there was a price jump to $399. The $199 price decrease is the lowest it has ever been since it debuted in June 2021.

"From home fitness to fully immersive gaming to 2D entertainment, Meta Quest 2 is the most affordable way to tap into everything VR has to offer, and we’re doubling down by making our recent price drop permanent," says Meta.

The price drop shouldn't be a surprise considering the release of Quest 3 in October. The latest generation is sold for $499, making Meta Quest 2 the most affordable VR headset.

Meta also announced that the price of Quest 2 accessories will drop. The Elite Strap is now $24.00, the Elite Strap with Battery is now sold at $45, and the Carrying Case is now $20. The company's Active Pack is now reduced to $30, and its Fit Pack is seeing its price drop to $20.

The original Quest headset, which was released back in 2019, currently has no support, new updates, or new apps. Consumers rightfully fear this may be the beginning of the end of Quest 2.

With the release of Meta AI, Llama 3, and Ray-Ban glasses, fans of Meta hardware products are expecting the new age of virtual reality and artificial reality in all upcoming Meta products.

While the Quest 3 has more to offer, such as mixed reality support and a bump in specs, the Quest 3 is the best for its price.