Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is undergoing a major reorganization. The company announced the creation of a new “Wearables” group, focusing on developing hardware and software for augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) products. This move comes amidst a wave of Meta layoffs in 2024, affecting thousands of employees.
Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s chief technology officer, will lead the new Wearables group. The formation of this group underscores Meta’s commitment to the AR/VR market, despite recent setbacks and cost-cutting measures. Meta has heavily invested in its Metaverse vision, with the Oculus Quest VR headset as a key component.
The reorganization and establishment of the Wearables group occur amidst significant layoffs. Meta has been reducing its workforce across various departments, including Reality Labs, the division responsible for AR/VR products. The Reality Labs Meta layoffs are part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and focus on core growth areas.
The new Wearables group will consolidate teams responsible for hardware, software, and research related to AR/VR products. This consolidation is intended to foster greater collaboration and streamline development processes, accelerating Meta’s progress in the AR/VR space.
Meta’s decision to create a dedicated Wearables group amidst the 2024 layoffs indicates a strategic shift towards prioritizing AR/VR technology development. This move signals Meta’s commitment to the future of the Metaverse, despite the challenges and uncertainties in the market.
Additionally, Meta’s reorganization is seen as a response to the competitive pressures in the tech industry, where rapid advancements in AR/VR technology are critical for staying ahead. By focusing on wearables and consolidating its efforts, Meta aims to innovate faster and deliver more integrated and advanced AR/VR experiences to its users.