Meta Rewires Strategy: From Virtual Worlds to Augmented Reality
According to The New York Times, citing three insiders, Meta is preparing structural changes within Reality Labs, targeting significant reductions in teams focused on metaverse-driven social platforms. The move could impact 10% to 30% of staff, with actions starting as early as next month.
Resource Reallocation Toward Wearable Innovation
Reality Labs currently operates across two pillars: VR-based social ecosystems and wearable hardware. Sources indicate leadership is redirecting freed-up budgets toward AR glasses development—seen as the critical bridge between digital experiences and real-world interaction.
- Co-branded AR glasses with Ray-Ban have exceeded sales targets
- Executives believe the future of immersive social lies in lightweight, everyday wearables
- VR headset initiatives continue, but with reduced strategic priority
The Rationale Behind the Pivot
Since its 2021 metaverse push, Meta has invested heavily in virtual environments. With user adoption lagging, the company is now recalibrating. This shift isn’t an abandonment of VR, but a strategic refocus—from building isolated digital worlds to creating AR tools that seamlessly integrate into daily life.