Meta Platforms is shifting its Horizon Worlds strategy from a virtual reality-exclusive application to a mobile-first experience. The company will separate the social 3D app from the Quest VR ecosystem. This move aims to compete directly with user-generated content platforms like Roblox and Fortnite on smartphones.
The pivot follows a restructuring within the Reality Labs division. Meta recently laid off approximately 10% of Reality Labs staff. The company also closed multiple VR studios.
Prioritizing mobile allows Meta to access a larger market for the platform. Horizon Worlds represents a multi-billion dollar investment for the company.