Meta has decided to continue supporting Horizon Worlds on virtual reality platforms, a reversal from its earlier plans to limit the app's availability. Andrew Bosworth, Meta's CTO, announced the decision in an Instagram Q&A, responding to concerns from users who were upset about the potential shutdown.
This decision comes after Meta indicated earlier in the year that it would cease VR support for the app, which was once a key component of its vision for a social metaverse. The company had planned to transition Horizon Worlds to web and mobile only by June 15, but this announcement was quickly retracted.
Financial Context
The decision to maintain VR support highlights the ongoing struggles of Meta's Reality Labs division, which has reported substantial financial losses, totaling approximately $73 billion since 2021. This division encompasses both virtual and augmented reality projects, including Horizon Worlds.
Market Performance
Despite the continued support for Horizon Worlds on VR, Meta's focus is shifting towards mobile platforms, where the app has seen a significant increase in downloads. According to Appfigures, the mobile version of Horizon Worlds has achieved 45 million downloads globally, with a 53% year-over-year increase in downloads for 2026.
Consumer Spending Concerns
While the mobile app is gaining traction, consumer spending remains low, with only $1.1 million reported in total spending on the app. This figure is minimal compared to Meta's extensive investments in the metaverse, raising questions about the app's long-term viability.
Future Directions
Moving forward, Bosworth emphasized the importance of focusing on mobile development to enhance user engagement and streamline the app's growth. The team is currently tasked with developing features for both mobile and VR, which he noted is inefficient.
As Meta navigates these challenges, the continued support for Horizon Worlds in VR may reflect a broader strategy to adapt to changing consumer preferences while attempting to salvage its vision for a social metaverse.
