Meta pitches VR to mobile developers with new support for Android apps on Quest

Meta introduces support for Android developers on Quest with new tools and features, simplifying app porting to Horizon OS.

: During Meta Connect, Meta announced support for Android developers on its Quest platform via Horizon OS. The Meta Spatial SDK and Editor help integrate spatial features into mobile apps. Mark Zuckerberg emphasizes Meta's openness compared to Apple. Developers like Amazon and Twitch have tested these new tools.

During the Meta Connect conference, Meta pitched its Quest mixed reality platform to developers as the next significant app store. The company revealed support for Android developers on Horizon OS, easing the transition with familiar languages and IDEs. Mark Rabkin, VP at Meta, highlighted the completion of their open store transition and the introduction of the Meta Spatial SDK and Editor, which allows developers to add native spatial features to traditional mobile apps.

Meta has also improved support for 2D apps on Horizon OS, including features like resizing, spatial audio, and multitasking. Major developers such as Amazon and Twitch have already tested these tools, indicating broad industry interest. Meta's CTO, Andrew Bosworth, acknowledged past difficulties in developing for their platforms and apologized for the challenges faced by the developer community.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized Meta's more open approach compared to competitors like Apple. He believes Meta's new tools and features will not only expand their app library but also create a new revenue stream. Examples like Spotify and Wordle demonstrate the potential for Progressive Web Apps and web-based enhancements on the Meta platform.

Horizon OSMeta Spatialmixed reality