In a recent development, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, has reportedly decided against partnering with Alphabet's Google for the use of its Android XR platform in its virtual and mixed-reality Quest headsets. This decision comes as a response to Google's suggestion to collaborate on its new software platform designed for virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed-reality headsets.

According to The Information, an unnamed source familiar with the matter revealed that Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, aims to "own the next computational platform for AR, VR, and mixed reality." As a result, a potential partnership with Google and the use of their software platform could hinder Zuckerberg's plans.

Meanwhile, Meta is said to be in discussions with various hardware companies, including LG Electronics from South Korea, regarding the development of new VR devices utilizing the Quest's software. This information was shared by undisclosed Meta employees cited in The Information's report. Both Meta and LG Electronics, as well as Alphabet, declined to comment when approached by Reuters.

It is worth noting that Meta's Quest devices currently operate on an open-source version of Google's Android operating system, as stated in the report. With the decision to forgo partnering with Google for the Android XR platform, Meta continues to explore other avenues to establish its dominance in the emerging AR, VR, and mixed-reality market.

The developments surrounding Meta Platforms' strategic partnerships and its quest to lead the future of computational platforms in the AR, VR, and mixed-reality space are yet to unfold. Industry experts closely anticipate the company's next moves, particularly its engagement with hardware manufacturers such as LG Electronics, as it seeks to solidify its position in this rapidly evolving sector.