Google was open to an Android XR partnership with Meta that would give existing headset makers access to more apps, but that offer was rejected.
according to information, At a meeting between the two companies in late 2023, “Google proposed becoming a meta partner on Android XR.” As a result, Meta could contribute to Android XR since the Quest headset already uses an open-source version of Android. This means Meta will switch to a new OS.
Meanwhile, Meta has long been pushing for more Google apps on its platform, beyond just YouTube, and this partnership will help it do just that.
information “Meta executives have decided against the partnership,” but “Google has made clear the door remains open.”
Today’s report reveals how Meta has considered partnering with Google in the past, including using the Play Store. However, the idea was not pursued “seriously” as Meta wants to keep the Quest Store.
Google’s strategy with XR and AR is to replicate the Android OEM model in new form factors. According to the latest reports, the company is no longer developing first-party hardware. Beyond Meta, today’s article also talks about how Google has been reaching out to other headset manufacturers.
Meanwhile, Meta wants to own this next platform after losing mobile to Apple and Google. As is often the case with Android OEM models, we don’t want to cede control of the software and platform to Google. Meta itself wants to become an Android XR OS and is rumored to be in talks with LG, but it doesn’t have an existing smartphone app ecosystem to leverage.
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