Meta has made significant layoffs in its Reality Labs division, which focuses on developing virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and related wearable devices. The cuts primarily affected employees within the Oculus Studios unit, which is responsible for creating VR and AR content and games for Meta’s Quest VR headsets. A spokesperson confirmed the layoffs, explaining that the restructuring aims to improve efficiency and allow the Studios team to focus on delivering better content for both current and future mixed-reality experiences.
The restructuring also impacted those working on Meta’s Supernatural VR workout app, which was part of the company’s broader push to expand its presence in virtual fitness. A statement shared by Meta on the Supernatural official Facebook group expressed regret over the layoffs, acknowledging the loss of talented team members who played crucial roles in shaping the platform’s journey. Their absence, the company noted, would be deeply felt by both the team and users of the app.
This round of layoffs follows Meta’s February decision to reduce its overall workforce by 5%, which included employees considered to be underperformers. The restructuring within Reality Labs comes after the division recorded a significant operating loss of $4.97 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024, despite generating $1.1 billion in sales. The company is clearly taking steps to align its resources with its future vision for mixed reality, focusing on more efficient operations while continuing to develop content for its growing user base.
Meta’s Reality Labs division has faced increasing scrutiny as it continues to invest heavily in the development of VR and AR technologies, competing with other tech giants in the fast-evolving immersive tech space. Despite the financial challenges, Meta remains committed to expanding its footprint in virtual and augmented reality, with a focus on building experiences that engage users across various industries, from gaming to fitness and beyond.
These changes in the Reality Labs division highlight Meta’s ongoing adjustments as it strives to balance innovation with efficiency while positioning itself for long-term growth in the rapidly developing metaverse and immersive technology markets.
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