Next week, Meta will officially rebrand its Quest smartphone app to Meta Horizon. This name change is a part of Meta’s comprehensive strategy to consolidate its Quest software under the Horizon umbrella. Accompanying this rebrand, the Quest operating system will become Horizon OS, and the Quest Store will be renamed Horizon Store in the coming month.
Addressing Potential User Confusion
This transition may pose a challenge for new users, as they might search for “Meta Quest” only to find “Meta Horizon.” The Horizon brand is predominantly recognized for Horizon Worlds, Meta’s immersive virtual reality space similar to platforms like Rec Room and Roblox.
Rebrand Aims and Objectives
The rebranding aims to facilitate the platform’s expansion to include third-party headsets from manufacturers like ASUS and Lenovo. While Meta Quest will continue as the brand for Meta’s hardware, Horizon will now signify the comprehensive software suite, including the operating system and the store.
Enhancements from Recent Redesign
This rebranding announcement follows a recent significant app redesign. The updates have markedly improved performance, making store pages, search results, and other features load considerably faster, enhancing overall user satisfaction.
Notable Updates in the Redesigned App
- Introduction of Light Mode: The app now offers a light mode option, providing users with a fresh and brighter interface.
- Enhanced Navigation: The update has made friends and the algorithm-driven “feed” more accessible, while store and headset settings now require navigating through small top-screen icons. Functions like casting now require two taps instead of one, and the app library is more deeply integrated into the menu.
These updates demonstrate Meta’s dedication to refining user experience and expanding the Horizon platform’s capabilities.
By addressing these key points, Meta aims to ensure a smoother transition for users while positioning Horizon as a versatile and inclusive platform for various virtual reality headsets.