Meta's metaverse is going mobile-first

Engadget

by Ian Carlos Campbell

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Meta is making a significant shift in its metaverse strategy by separating Horizon Worlds from its Quest VR platform. This move, as explained by Samantha Ryan, VP of Content at Reality Labs, aims to allow both platforms to grow independently. While this decision contradicts Meta’s initial vision of creating an immersive virtual world for all online interactions, it aligns with recent budget cuts in theReality Labs division and Mark Zuckerberg’s focus on AI hardware like smart glasses. The separation will enable Meta to double down on its VR developer ecosystem while shifting Horizon Worlds to a mobile-first platform. This strategic pivot makes Horizon Worlds a more direct competitor to platforms like Roblox or Fortnite, which also offer user-created and monetizable worlds. By focusing on mobile, Meta believes it can scale the platform more effectively, leveraging its existing social networks to reach billions of people. Despite shuttering several VR game studios earlier this year, Meta remains committed to supporting third-party developers. The company is introducing new monetization tools, better discoverability features, and a “Deals” tab to enhance developer opportunities. Additionally, maintaining a strong library of games on the Quest platform will be crucial for its long-term success, as Meta continues to explore gaming-focused VR headsets. This shift underscores Meta’s evolving priorities, with a clearer emphasis on mobile and AI hardware in its metaverse strategy. By adapting to market demands and focusing on scalability, Meta aims to position Horizon Worlds as a more accessible and competitive platform while continuing to support its VR ecosystem. This move not only

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Originally published on Engadget on 2/19/2026