Meta announces layoffs in Metaverse silicon unit: Restructuring hits Reality Labs division
Meta is reportedly laying off employees in its Reality Labs division. The move to reduce the workforce aligns with Meta's ongoing efforts to control costs, evident in the 21,000 job cuts since November of the previous year.
Highlights
- Meta is set to lay off employees within its metaverse-oriented Reality Labs division
- The division facing layoffs comprises around 600 employees
In a strategic move aimed at streamlining its operations, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is set to lay off employees within its metaverse-oriented Reality Labs division. Sources familiar with the matter revealed that the layoffs are slated for Wednesday and will primarily affect the unit focused on developing custom silicon.
Challenges & restructuring in silicon development
The division facing layoffs, known as the Facebook Agile Silicon Team (FAST), comprises around 600 employees specialising in creating custom chips for Meta's devices. While FAST aimed to enhance the efficiency of Meta's devices, the company encountered challenges competing with external silicon providers. Meta's collaboration with chipmaker Qualcomm underscores its effort to address this issue, as it outsources chip production for its current market offerings.
Impact on Meta's Metaverse vision
The move to reduce the workforce aligns with Meta's ongoing efforts to control costs, evident in the 21,000 job cuts since November of the previous year. These strategic adjustments are crucial as Meta continues to invest in augmented and virtual reality products, including AR glasses. Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, envisions these advancements shaping the metaverse, a virtual realm with immersive experiences.
However, deep cuts may pose challenges to Zuckerberg's ambitious plans, potentially affecting the development of transformative AR technologies. As Meta navigates these transitions, the company remains committed to innovating within the metaverse space. The restructuring aims to enhance efficiency, allowing Meta to focus on its core objectives, including the evolution of augmented reality products and immersive technologies.
