Meta Platforms Inc. is opening its Meta Quest OS to third-party hardware makers like Microsoft, Lenovo, and ASUS.

Meta is collaborating with Xbox for a limited-edition Quest inspired by the Xbox console, and integrating with Xbox Game Pass.

The company is simplifying app submissions for the Meta Horizon store and developing a 'spatial app framework' for mixed reality apps.

Meta Quest OS will allow access to external app stores, including Xbox Game Pass and Steam, with an open invitation to Google Play Store.

Mark Zuckerberg teased potential specialized Quest sets for gaming and fitness, featuring unique designs and materials.

Lenovo's CEO Yuanqing Yang sees the partnership as an opportunity to explore new mixed reality user scenarios.

Meta's strategy aims to facilitate VR software development and position itself against Apple in the AR/VR market.

The announcement follows the launch of Quest 3, which showcases improved ergonomics and display, powered by Qualcomm's XR2 Gen 2 chip.

Meta plans to extend the Horizon metaverse's reach, potentially leveraging ads and content for monetization.