Meta’s Oculus Studios Layoffs: Impacts on the Popular VR Exercise App Supernatural
Meta recently announced layoffs in its Reality Labs division, which focuses on innovative virtual and augmented reality projects. This move has affected employees at Oculus Studios, the team responsible for developing applications and games for Meta’s popular Quest headsets.
Details on the Layoffs at Meta’s Reality Labs
Although Meta did not disclose the exact number of employees affected by the layoffs, the cuts target those working on Quest products, particularly the VR exercise app Supernatural. In 2023, Meta acquired Within, the developer behind Supernatural, highlighting the app’s significance in their virtual reality portfolio.
Statement from Meta
In a statement to TechCrunch, Meta indicated that “some teams within Oculus Studios are undergoing shifts in structure and roles that have impacted team size.” The company aims to enhance efficiency in developing future mixed reality experiences while continuing to provide quality content for users today.
The Financial Impact of Reality Labs
Reality Labs has become a significant financial burden for Meta, reporting a loss of nearly $5 billion in the last quarter of 2024 despite generating around $1 billion in sales. Since rebranding from Facebook, Meta has incurred billions in operating losses within this division, underscoring its ongoing commitment to the metaverse concept.
Looking Ahead: Earnings Report and Future Opportunities
These layoffs arrive just ahead of Meta’s first-quarter earnings report next week, where the company is likely to face scrutiny regarding the escalating costs associated with Reality Labs. In a positive note, Meta confirmed that laid-off employees will have the chance to apply for other positions within the company.
Impact on Supernatural Users
For those who enjoy using Supernatural, the recent layoffs may result in fewer new workouts being released each week. However, the app plans to offer each workout at a broader range of skill levels, moving away from a single difficulty level per session. Additionally, the coaches leading the workouts will remain unaffected by the layoffs, ensuring continuity in the quality of instruction.
For more information on Meta’s initiatives and updates, you can visit their official page or follow their Facebook profile.
