Apple's Competitors, Google and Meta, Gear Up to Challenge iPhone and Vision Pro
Google and Meta Platforms Inc. are revamping their strategies to compete with Apple's iPhone and Vision Pro. Google's management shake-up aims to integrate AI more deeply into its products, emulating Apple's approach. Meta Platforms Inc. is opening up its virtual reality operating system to any headset maker, similar to Android's success.
Apple's top rivals are making strategic moves to compete with Apple's flagship products, including the iPhone and Vision Pro. Alphabet Inc.'s Google recently underwent a transformative management overhaul, while Meta Platforms Inc. announced that it will open up its virtual reality operating system to any headset maker. These developments come alongside new details emerging about iOS 18 and Apple's AI plans. Let's delve into the latest updates from Apple's rivals.
Google's management shake-up involved elevating Pixel hardware chief Rick Osterloh to oversee the Android operating system. This move aims to integrate AI more deeply into Google's products and emulate Apple's successful product development model. Previously, Google's hardware and Android teams had conflicting goals, but now the company is striving for better collaboration and integration, similar to Apple's approach.
Meanwhile, Meta Platforms Inc. is shifting its strategy to be more like Android. The company has renamed its headset operating system to Meta Horizon OS and plans to offer it to any manufacturer. This approach mirrors the success of Windows and Android, which became dominant operating systems in the computer and smartphone markets, respectively. By opening up its OS, Meta aims to gain an edge over Apple in the mixed-reality headset market.
While Apple's Vision Pro remains a leading mixed-reality headset, Meta's decision to make its OS available to all manufacturers could help it become a household name in the industry. Apple's roadmap for the Vision Pro doesn't include a second-generation model until the end of 2026, giving Meta ample time to establish itself. However, Apple is working on bringing a more affordable version of the Vision Pro to market before then, although the exact approach is still being determined.
In terms of smartphones, Google sees an opportunity to challenge the iPhone, especially as the iPhone faces challenges in key markets like China. With the recent management changes, Google aims to prioritise its own devices, such as the Pixel, and build better, more integrated products to compete with Apple.
Additionally, Apple is gearing up for a shift into AI hardware with the upcoming release of the M4 chip. This new chip will be featured in the next generation of iPad Pro, along with new iMacs, MacBook Pros, and Macs. Apple's focus on AI hardware indicates its commitment to advancing technology and staying ahead in the market.
Google and Meta Platforms Inc. are revamping their strategies to compete with Apple's iPhone and Vision Pro.
Google's management shake-up aims to integrate AI more deeply into its products, emulating Apple's approach.
Meta Platforms Inc. is opening up its virtual reality operating system to any headset maker, similar to Android's success.
Source: Bloomberg