Meta has decided to continue supporting virtual reality (VR) in its Horizon Worlds platform, despite earlier announcements indicating a shift towards mobile-only experiences. This update was shared by Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s CTO, during a recent AMA on Instagram.
Initially, Meta had planned to cease VR support for Horizon Worlds by June 15, focusing instead on mobile applications. Bosworth clarified that existing VR games and experiences will remain operational, but future developments will prioritize mobile platforms. This decision aligns with Meta’s earlier statement in February, which emphasized a transition to a mobile-centric approach for Horizon Worlds.
Development Focus and Team Changes
In January, Meta laid off approximately 1,000 employees from its Reality Labs division, primarily affecting teams responsible for first-party software and content for the Quest VR headsets. Despite these layoffs, several thousand employees remain within Reality Labs, as Meta continues to invest in new VR headsets and augmented reality (AR) technologies.
Meta’s shift in focus to mobile is driven by the perception of a larger audience in that space. Bosworth previously noted that concentrating development efforts on mobile would enhance the team’s productivity. However, the decision to retain VR support in Horizon Worlds appears to be a response to user feedback, indicating a desire for continued VR experiences.
Marketplace Adjustments
Alongside the focus on mobile, Meta has also announced changes to its VR software marketplace, emphasizing support for third-party developers rather than major first-party projects. This strategy reflects a broader trend within Meta to adapt to market demands while still maintaining a presence in the VR landscape.
As of now, the future of Horizon Worlds remains uncertain, but the decision to keep VR support operational suggests that Meta is still exploring the potential of VR technology within its ecosystem.
This article was produced by NeonPulse.today using human and AI-assisted editorial processes, based on publicly available information. Content may be edited for clarity and style.
