At Meta Connect 2025, Meta unveiled a series of significant updates for Horizon OS, with the latest version, v81, bringing a refreshed user experience and enhanced functionality across its metaverse platform. The most notable change is the introduction of a new Horizon Central, a redesigned hub that serves as the central command center for users’ virtual lives. Horizon Central streamlines access to apps, social features, settings, and activity feeds, offering a more intuitive and personalized navigation experience. One of the standout additions is Mixed Reality Link, a feature that allows users to seamlessly integrate their physical environment with virtual content. This update enables users to view and interact with their digital avatars and applications in real-world spaces, enhancing the blending of physical and virtual realities. With improved spatial awareness and tracking, Mixed Reality Link supports more natural interactions and better integration between devices. Meta has also made substantial improvements to the Horizon Store, increasing discoverability and personalization. The updated store now features smarter recommendations based on user behavior, recent activity, and community trends. New categories and curated collections make it easier to find games, social experiences, productivity tools, and creative apps. Additionally, developers benefit from enhanced tools and analytics to better understand their audience and optimize their content. The update also includes performance optimizations, faster app loading times, and reduced latency, making the overall experience smoother and more responsive. Audio enhancements improve spatial sound quality, while new avatar customization options allow for greater personal expression, including more detailed facial animations and dynamic clothing physics. Meta emphasized that Horizon OS v81 is designed to make the platform more accessible and engaging for both new and experienced users. With a focus on usability, social connectivity, and immersive experiences, the update reflects Meta’s ongoing commitment to evolving the metaverse into a more integrated and meaningful part of daily life. The rollout of Horizon OS v81 is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with full availability across supported Quest headsets.