On January 14, 2025, Meta will shut down its augmented reality (AR) platform, Spark, leaving many creators who rely on Spark to develop AR effects shocked and concerned about their future.
Spark’s closure and its impact
Creators can develop augmented reality (AR) effects, including face filters, for a variety of apps, including Instagram and Messenger, using Meta’s Spark platform. In spite of its success, Meta has made the decision to stop supporting third-party augmented reality tools and content, claiming that this will allow the business to focus on other matters.
“This decision is part of our larger efforts to prioritize the products we believe will best serve the future needs of our consumers and business customers alike,” Meta said in a blog post. The company also mentioned that its own AR effects would remain available.
Creators’ reactions
AR creators, many of whom have made their careers off of the platform, are outraged by the announcement of Spark’s closure. Douglas Costa, the creator, vented his annoyance on the Meta Spark Community page, saying, “Over the past few years, we creators have invested money, knowledge, advertising, and an entire infrastructure to make this our livelihood. You can’t just abruptly end support for filters in such a simple and easy way — it’s a huge disrespect to us and also to the Facebook/Instagram users.”
Other creators expressed similar opinions, with several highlighting Meta’s brief notice. Some artists are in a panic, trying to find other platforms to publish their work.
It’s anticipated that Meta will increase its investments in emerging augmented reality technologies, such smart glasses. Meta’s September 25th event, Meta Connect, could provide additional insight into the company’s future intentions in the augmented reality sector.
