Meta Pivots on Shutting Down VR Metaverse, Keeps Horizon Worlds For Now

Meta is taking a step back from its initial plans to shut down the VR version of its 3D social platform, Horizon Worlds. In a surprising move, the tech giant has decided to keep the existing VR worlds available and maintain the Horizon Worlds VR app for the foreseeable future.

The reversal comes just days after Meta announced it would be shutting down the VR Horizon Worlds experience on June 15th, in favor of focusing on the mobile version of the app. However, in a recent AMA (Ask Me Anything) session on his Instagram, Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth shared the company's updated plans.

Bosworth stated that Meta is keeping the VR Horizon Worlds experiences around as a way to support "the fans who reached out, like yourself, who really care about that." This suggests that the company has received significant feedback from the Horizon Worlds VR community, prompting them to reconsider their initial decision to shut it down.

The move highlights Meta's ongoing efforts to navigate the complex and evolving landscape of the metaverse. While the company's initial focus was on the VR version of Horizon Worlds, it has now recognized the importance of maintaining a presence in both the VR and mobile realms to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its user base.

This decision also underscores Meta's commitment to supporting its existing VR ecosystem, even as it pivots towards a greater emphasis on the mobile version of Horizon Worlds. The company's willingness to adapt and respond to user feedback suggests a more nuanced and flexible approach to building its metaverse vision.

As the metaverse landscape continues to evolve, Meta's ability to navigate these changes and maintain a strong presence in both VR and mobile will be crucial to its long-term success. The company's latest move to keep the VR Horizon Worlds experience alive is a testament to its willingness to listen to its users and adapt its strategies accordingly.

It remains to be seen how the Horizon Worlds VR experience will continue to evolve and what role it will play in Meta's broader metaverse strategy. However, this latest development underscores the company's commitment to providing a range of immersive and engaging metaverse experiences to its users, across both VR and mobile platforms.