Meta and Jio allegedly engaged in discussions for a new VR headset featuring Horizon OS.
Big agreement on the horizon? Meta is likely in negotiations with Jio regarding the licensing of the Horizon OS VR operating system for a potential new VR headset.
As per media sources, Meta is discussing with the Indian tech firm Jio about a possible licensing deal for its XR operating system, Horizon OS.
According to The Information, three insiders familiar with the situation have mentioned that the discussions pertain to providing Meta’s Horizon software for a new VR headset which Jio would create.
No additional details regarding the project are available. Meta has refrained from commenting on the report, and Jio has not responded to requests for comments. It remains uncertain whether these discussions will lead to a conclusion.
Meta expands VR ecosystem to include third-party hardware producers
Recently, Meta proclaimed that it is making the Meta Quest operating system available to hardware producers and is licensing it as Meta Horizon OS. Asus and Lenovo are the initial hardware partners, intending to create headsets focused on gaming or productivity. Meanwhile, Xbox is developing a limited edition of the Meta Quest 3, while the VR headset resulting from a partnership between Meta and LG, announced in February, has reportedly been canceled.
Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg has frequently stated that unlike Apple, which is crafting a closed XR operating system with visionOS, he is pursuing an “open model” akin to Windows and Android. Meta considers this to be a crucial selling point for its platform.
Technology head Andrew Bosworth stated in a Q&A on Instagram that headset manufacturers can concentrate on specific feature combinations, like fitness, productivity, or gaming. They should complement the Meta Quest, which is designed as an all-in-one device. Bosworth indicated that all applications from the Meta Quest store should be compatible with headsets powered by Meta Horizon OS.
By licensing Meta Horizon OS to Jio, Meta could broaden its presence in the Asian market and position itself as the foremost platform in the XR sector. Jio is India’s leading mobile brand and is part of the retail and entertainment giant Reliance Industries. Previous products from the company include the budget-friendly JioDive smartphone VR headset.
