You may recall that back in 2014, Facebook spent a hugely significant sum of money to buy Oculus. It was certainly a pretty huge gamble. At the time, the Oculus technology was very early in its development. The promise and potential were there for sure. It was, however, a long way off the realisation. That being said though, the purchase (and injection of cash) probably allowed the VR headset to really take some big strides forward. Steps that now have it as the most popular choice with consumers.
Following the departure of the Oculus founder from Facebook earlier this year though, it seems that the company has taken another major decision. In a report via GamesIndustry, Oculus has now formally been swallowed and integrated into Facebook Technologies. Put simply, it is no longer an individual entity.
Well, on the whole, probably nothing. It simply means that rather than operating as a separate entity owned by Facebook, Oculus is now fully integrated into all of the social media sites technology developments. This can be good or bad depending on your perspective. The technology arm currently includes another company which Facebook purchased which is developing a video telephone call design. It does, however, raise questions about what their plans for the future are. Specifically, if it will affect anything currently in development.
The Oculus Rift is currently the most popular headset. This is a fact as last year it edged out the rival HTC Vive in ownership figures. As such, Facebook is still, clearly going to look to develop it further. That being said, with it no longer being an individual entity, it may lose some of its focus. Specifically on projects that were underway. This certainly wouldn’t be unheard of in similar business deals in the past.
It’s not time to worry. It is perhaps though, time to pay some closer attention. Specifically to what developments come from the VR development next.
What do you think? Do you own a VR headset? If so, which make? Do you think this decision will impact the Oculus Rift? – Let us know in the comments!
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