Meta, formerly known as Facebook, made a significant announcement during its developer keynote at the Meta Connect conference on Wednesday. The company revealed plans to expand support for Android apps on its Quest mixed reality platform, aiming to attract mobile developers to its Horizon OS. This move comes as tech giants like Apple and Google face increased scrutiny over their app store monopolies. Meta’s VP, Mark Rabkin, emphasized the company’s efforts to make it easier for developers to transition to Meta’s platform, stating, “If you can build for Android, you can build for Meta Horizon OS in your favorite language, your favorite IDE.”
Support for Android apps on Meta’s open store has been completed, signaling a new era for developers looking to explore opportunities in the mixed reality space. The company also introduced the Meta Spatial SDK, designed to assist developers in creating 3D and spatial apps. This SDK allows developers to enhance traditional mobile apps with native spatial features such as floating 3D objects, atmospherics, and immersive media. Additionally, the Meta Spatial Editor simplifies the process of adding panoramas and 3D spatial videos to the platform’s media viewer.
In a bid to cater to a wider range of developers, Meta has ensured that its open store now supports 2D apps with features like resizing, theater mode, spatial audio, background running, multitasking, and comprehensive hand and controller input handling. By providing these tools and capabilities, Meta aims to empower developers to unleash their creativity and create innovative experiences within the Horizon OS ecosystem.
To showcase the potential of its new technology, Meta developed Facebook and Instagram apps for Horizon OS using familiar tools like React Native. Other prominent developers, including Amazon, Twitch, and more, have also tested the system, indicating a growing interest in Meta’s platform. Furthermore, developers can now port existing mobile apps to Horizon OS using new SDKs and tools, streamlining the transition process and enabling them to accelerate their development efforts.
Meta’s commitment to addressing developer feedback was evident during the keynote address by the company’s CTO, Andrew “Boz” Bosworth. Acknowledging the challenges developers have faced in building for Meta’s platform, Boz expressed regret, stating, “We have not made it easy to develop for our platforms, and I want you to know that we know that, and we’re very sorry.” He emphasized the evolving nature of technology ecosystems and the need to adapt to constant change, highlighting Meta’s efforts to simplify the development process for creators.
In response to developer complaints and requests for improved support, Meta has introduced new features and tools to facilitate app development on Horizon OS. By leveraging open source AI tools and enhancing spatial capabilities, the company aims to provide developers with a more seamless and rewarding experience. Additionally, Meta is extending its spatial improvements to the browser and web XR, offering developers new avenues to explore and innovate within the open web ecosystem.
One notable example of Meta’s commitment to supporting developers is its collaboration with Spotify, enabling the music streaming service to deliver background audio and multitasking capabilities through its web-based app. The integration of Progressive Web Apps like the NYT’s Wordle into Meta’s app store further demonstrates the company’s dedication to fostering a diverse and engaging developer community. By offering in-app payments, discovery features, and more, Meta aims to create a thriving ecosystem that benefits both developers and users alike.
CEO Mark Zuckerberg has emphasized Meta’s commitment to openness and innovation, positioning the company as a viable alternative to closed, integrated models like Apple’s app store. As Zuckerberg stated in a recent podcast interview, Meta envisions a future where multiple approaches to platform architecture can coexist, presenting new opportunities for developers and consumers. By embracing a more open and collaborative ethos, Meta seeks to redefine the app development landscape and empower creators to realize their vision in the digital realm.
