Who is this resource for?
If you’re an existing ArborXR partner or customer, you’re in the right place. This blog will walk you through Meta’s latest v74 software update, their evolving go-to-market strategies, and – most importantly – how these changes impact your business and your devices already managed with ArborXR.
New to ArborXR? No worries! This article is designed for those already working with us. If you’re just starting your XR journey or exploring your options, we’ve got you covered too. Head over to our page on the ArborXR and Meta partnership to learn how our platform supports organizations launching and scaling XR programs with a robust MDM built for success.
Quick Facts About Meta’s v74 Update and Meta Horizon managed services (HMS)
What This Means for Existing Deployments:
Devices already using ArborXR won’t be affected by the v74 update. However, if ArborXR is removed or a device is factory reset, re-enrollment will need to be done through Meta’s HMS platform. New devices will need to be enrolled in ArborXR through HMS.
Quest for Business is now Horizon managed services:
Meta Quest for Business, is now Meta Horizon managed services for business and Meta Horizon managed services for education.
New Requirement:
All new Quest devices must have an active HMS license before enrolling in a third-party MDM like ArborXR.
No More Sideloading:
Previously, organizations could sideload MDMs like ArborXR. Now, HMS must be used to enroll Quest devices.
Meta Approved Third-Party MDMs:
Devices can only enroll into Meta approved third-party MDMs like ArborXR.
Why This Matters to Existing ArborXR Customers
Let’s be honest — setting up Meta devices at scale has always been challenging. Gone are the days of fumbling with cables, digging through drawers for the right adapters, or creating endless dummy Meta accounts just to get devices running. And let’s not even start on enabling USB debugging.
With ArborXR’s official integration with Meta, all those frustrating steps are a thing of the past. Now, through Meta Horizon managed services (HMS), device setup is a seamless Wi-Fi-based process. No cables, no hassle — just a smoother, faster way to get your devices up and running.
This update isn’t just about convenience. It’s a shift for the entire industry. The deeper partnership between ArborXR and Meta unlocks new APIs, providing more powerful tools for remote device management, app deployments, and security control.
Think of it like Apple Business Manager working with Jamf — a streamlined, secure environment that makes managing devices at scale effortless. For your organization, this means faster procurement and provisioning, less downtime, and devices that are ready to go when you need them.
IT teams can now deploy large fleets of Meta devices consistently and efficiently, all while relying on the full functionality and support of ArborXR’s platform. It’s everything you love about ArborXR — now even better, faster, and simpler.
Meta’s latest changes will ripple across the XR industry, affecting customers, channel partners, and the broader ecosystem. At ArborXR, our mission is to help you navigate these changes with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re launching your first XR program or scaling an existing deployment, we’re here to offer guidance, support, and the tools you need to succeed.
If you’d like to learn more from our product team – here’s our help center FAQ.
Key Benefits of ArborXR’s Integration with Meta’s Horizon managed services (HMS)
✅ Faster Setup
Reduce device setup time by up to 60% with Wi-Fi-based HMS enrollment, getting your fleet operational quickly and efficiently.
✅ Expanded API Access
Our close collaboration with Meta unlocks new APIs, giving you more granular control, enhanced features, and a seamless user experience.
✅ Seamless Management
With ArborXR Home and Kiosk Mode, users stay focused on the right applications without access to the Meta Home Environment — no distractions, just uninterrupted XR experiences.
Updates & Considerations for Meta Horizon managed services (HMS)
Meta’s latest updates to Meta Horizon managed services (HMS) mark a big step forward in making XR device management more streamlined. These changes bring new benefits but also require careful consideration—especially for organizations already using ArborXR.
- Device purchasing & enrollment:
Meta devices must be purchased from an approved Meta reseller and enrolled in ArborXR through HMS. - New device bundles:
Bundles now include a 2-year HMS subscription and a 3-year limited device warranty, with MSRP starting at $399 USD. - Standalone HMS pricing:
HMS costs $179.99 USD per device, per year if purchased separately. Shared Mode is now included. - Migration for existing devices:
Migrating existing ArborXR devices to HMS requires a factory reset, an HMS subscription for each device, and devices must be re-enrolled using the new wireless enrollment method enabled by the integration. - Education-specific pricing:
Schools can get device lifetime access to HMS, when purchased together with a Quest device, MSRP starting at $499 USD. This subscription is tied to the device’s serial number.
Key Considerations for ArborXR Customers
- Migration requirements:
Transitioning an existing fleet requires factory resets, a purchase of an HMS license for each device, and re-enrolling devices, which can be time-consuming and costly for large organizations. - Education flexibility vs. vendor lock-in:
The one-time device lifetime access bundle offers cost savings but restricts devices to Meta’s ecosystem. However, organizations wanting flexibility can pay this one-time fee to use any device management platform they prefer with their headsets. - ArborXR’s cross-platform advantage:
ArborXR works across multiple XR devices, including PICO, HTC, Sony, and Samsung, ensuring greater flexibility for organizations that want to scale and adapt.
Meta’s approach – particularly with commercial devices – introduces added costs that organizations need to factor into their budgets. And while these updates bring exciting new capabilities, there’s still room for improvement in balancing cost, flexibility, and support for XR customers.
Meta Horizon managed services Pricing
Pricing is an important consideration for organizations adopting Meta’s new services. Below is a breakdown of key costs:
Next Steps
Want more information? Dive deeper into the technical details with these helpful resources:
- Check out our HMS FAQ →
- Watch our HMS overview video to better understand what Horizon managed services, Meta’s new first-party MDM, offers your business.
- Watch our Enrollment video for step-by-step visual guidance on enrolling your devices with HMS and ArborXR.
As our partnership with Meta continues to grow, we’re committed to sharing your feedback, championing your needs, and ensuring that XR technology evolves to serve organizations like yours.
Let’s build the future of XR together.