Meta Platforms (META) announced on Tuesday that it would shut down its augmented reality (AR) studio called Meta Spark on January 14. This decision will enable the removal of third-party AR effects across Instagram and Facebook, as well as computer-generated filters, masks, and 3D objects.
The decision of Meta to cease the functioning of Meta Spark illustrates a change in its strategic plans. The company claimed that it would reprioritize its investments in AI and the metaverse, which the firm described as the next phase of the internet. The AR effects that are created in-house will still be available across Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger.
Meta outlines strategic changes
The announcement has caused a lot of frustration among third-party developers who used Meta Spark to create unique AR experiences. Some are turning to other channels; others are thinking about Snapchat’s Lens Studio or Unity. These platforms provide similar AR creation features and could entice previous Meta Spark users.
Meta Platforms is shifting its focus towards Artificial Intelligence and coming up with innovations like Augmented Reality glasses. In a blog post, the company announced this strategic change and noted that the resources previously dedicated to Meta Spark will be directed towards these new domains. Meta’s investment in AI and the metaverse is in line with its future-focused approach to human-computer communication.
Apart from the Meta Spark shutdown, Meta also stated that it will cease supporting the Workplace app for users by June 2026. However, the app will remain as Meta’s internal communication platform. This is in line with Meta’s strategy to cut down on its product portfolio and focus on key areas of expansion.
The shutdown of Meta Spark has raised a lot of eyebrows among the AR development fraternity. Members of the Meta Spark’s community group on Facebook have been posting their thoughts and ideas about the changes and what could be next.
Nonetheless, Meta has stated that Meta Spark’s conclusion will not affect third-party AR effects in reels or stories; these will still be available for users. However, the user can no longer access the AR effects and files that were stored in the Meta Spark Studio and Meta Spark Hub after the shutdown.
India emerges as largest market for Meta AI usage
Meta has made a major step in its AI goals, with India becoming the biggest market for Meta AI. During Meta’s second-quarter earnings call, the company’s Chief Financial Officer, Susan Li, pointed to this development.
Li stated that India has been active with Meta AI, which has been used for billions of queries since its launch. Meta AI, which was introduced in the United States the previous year, is now available on Instagram, Facebook, Messenger, WhatsApp, and on the web. Following the update to the Llama 3 model in April, Meta AI has been released in over a dozen countries, with India gaining full access after the June elections.
