The XR OS Wars: A Convergence on the Horizon

The XR OS Wars: A Convergence on the Horizon

Expect significant competition in the XR sector this year, driven by operating system convergence and hardware innovation that will cater to both consumer and enterprise users in 2024, the introduction of the Apple Vision Pro marked a pivotal moment with the launch of a new operating system, VisionOS. Followed quickly, in April, Meta announced its decision to open its operating system to third-party manufacturers, a strategic move that enhances its market position beyond its proprietary hardware.

This initiative was crucial for Meta, which already holds a dominant share in XR hardware; expanding its OS ecosystem solidifies its influence in the market. For the XR industry to thrive amidst an increasing number of hardware vendors, it faces challenges such as OS fragmentation and varied user experiences. Developers are pressured to create applications for multiple platforms, there is an urgent need for simplification across the industry

While CES 2025 showcased an array of new hardware innovations, ((https://www.linkedin.com/posts/crwburgess_ces-2025-the-smart-glasses-that-are-changing-activity-7283165958263767040-tLRK?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop)) the anticipated developments in operating system simplification may not be evident until later in 2025. The upcoming launch of Android XR, a product of the Qualcomm, Google, and Samsung partnership, is highly anticipated and could reshape the landscape

Examining other sectors reveals notable trends in operating system distribution:

PC Operating System Market Share

• Windows73.41%

• macOS14.14%

• Linux4.13%

• Chrome OS1.9%

Smartphone Operating System Market Share

• Android73.52%

• iOS26.01%

The trajectory for the XR sector suggests a similar consolidation trend toward fewer operating systems driven by consumer demand and cost-reduction pressures from hardware manufacturers. This convergence may lead to less differentiation but promises faster development cycles, greater usability, and reduced barriers to XR adoption

Apple will certainly maintain its proprietary OS strategy, while companies like Asus and Lenovo are set to launch on Horizon OS. Meta's sales leadership provides it with a competitive edge, yet existing players like HTC VIVE may transition fully to Android XR

The competitive landscape appears poised for a three-way contest among Apple, Meta, and Google. Given the size of the XR market, this dynamic could mirror the smartphone sector's evolution towards only two dominant players

The question for me is: will Meta's market leadership secure its position, or can Google's extensive OS experience make Android XR the preferred choice?

What are your thoughts on this evolving scenario?