Meta has decided to delay its plan to bring Horizon OS to third-party virtual reality headsets, signaling a clear shift in how the company wants to grow its VR ecosystem. The operating system, previously introduced as a broader platform beyond Meta’s own Quest devices, was expected to power future headsets from external manufacturers. That expansion is now on hold, with no confirmed timeline for when or if it will resume.
The move reflects Meta’s renewed focus on its own hardware and software products. Rather than spreading resources across multiple partners, the company is prioritizing tighter integration between Horizon OS and its first-party devices. Internally, the strategy is aimed at improving performance, stability, and long-term competitiveness as the VR market continues to evolve at a slower pace than once anticipated.
This decision also affects hardware partners that had been preparing headsets built around Horizon OS. Devices aimed at gaming, productivity, and enterprise use are now facing uncertainty, as manufacturers reassess their platform choices. Without access to Meta’s operating system, some companies may explore alternative ecosystems or delay VR projects altogether.
Meta’s pause comes amid broader changes within its Reality Labs division. The company has been refining its priorities, balancing long-term virtual reality ambitions with growing investments in artificial intelligence and wearable technologies. Simplifying the VR roadmap allows Meta to concentrate on fewer products while maintaining control over user experience and software updates.
For developers and consumers, the shift suggests that Meta intends to keep Horizon OS closely tied to its own hardware for the foreseeable future. While this may limit diversity in available devices, it could also result in more consistent experiences and clearer direction for the platform. Whether Meta eventually reopens Horizon OS to outside manufacturers will likely depend on market conditions and the success of its next generation of headsets.
