Meta's metaverse is going mobile — and leaving VR behind
Business Insider
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Meta is shifting its Horizon Worlds platform from a VR-focused experience to a mobile app, marking a significant shift in its metaverse strategy. The company, which invested heavily in VR through its Reality Labs division (reportedly spending nearly $80 billion since 2020), is now prioritizing mobile as a key growth area. This pivot comes after experimenting with Worlds on mobile platforms and seeing positive results. While Meta remains committed to virtual reality hardware and supporting third-party developers, the move to focus on mobile aligns with its goal of accessing a much larger market.
The decision reflects Meta’s re-evaluation of its VR ambitions. Last month, the company laid off roughly 10% of Reality Labs employees, closed three VR gaming studios, and halted new content releases for Supernatural, a popular VR fitness app. Despite these changes, Meta continues to emphasize its long-term commitment to VR hardware, with a robust roadmap for future headsets tailored to different audience segments. The company has also invested in VR developer platforms, supporting games like "The Thrill of the Fight 2" and "Hard Bullet," which have generated millions in revenue.
The shift to mobile positions Horizon Worlds in direct competition with established mobile gaming giants like Roblox and Fortnite. Meta’s blog post highlights that 86% of time spent on its headsets is dedicated to third-party apps, suggesting a broader appeal for casual mobile users over hardcore VR enthusiasts. This pivot aligns with CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s vision during Meta’s latest earnings call, where he positioned Horizon as the natural home for immersive 3D content—content that can now be accessed and shared via phone without the need for a headset.
This strategic move matters to businesses and investors because it underscores Meta’s adaptability in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. By focusing on mobile, Meta aims to recapture growth and profitability while maintaining its commitment to VR innovation. The balance between these two strategies highlights Meta’s focus on sustainability and scalability in its metaverse efforts.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/20/2026