Meta cuts jobs in Reality Labs
As Meta refines its virtual and mixed reality vision, recent layoffs reveal the growing challenges behind its ambitious tech investments.
Meta has announced layoffs within its Reality Labs division, impacting Oculus Studios and hardware development teams. Among those affected is the team behind Supernatural, a popular VR fitness app that Meta acquired for over $400 million.
The company stated that these restructuring efforts aim to improve efficiency and focus on developing future mixed reality experiences, particularly in fitness and gaming. Despite reaffirming its commitment to VR and mixed reality, Meta’s moves reflect its Quest headset business challenges.
While its smart glasses partnership with Ray-Ban has exceeded sales expectations, Quest devices continue to underperform, with the latest Quest 3S already seeing discounts less than a year after release.
Why does it matter?
The layoffs signal Meta’s attempt to streamline operations as it navigates a shifting market for virtual and mixed reality. Although the company promises ongoing support for its VR communities, these changes highlight the pressures Meta faces in turning its ambitious metaverse and hardware ventures into sustainable success.
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