Controversy Erupts as Meta Allows Teens into Horizon Worlds VR App

Meta, formerly known as Facebook, has announced its decision to allow teenagers onto its virtual reality app, Horizon Worlds, despite facing opposition from lawmakers and civil society organizations. This move has prompted concerns about potential negative impacts on mental health. Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, envisions Horizon Worlds as a groundbreaking platform where users can physically interact with each other in virtual spaces resembling real life. However, critics argue that the company’s track record in protecting children and teens, as well as potential privacy risks, warrant a reconsideration of this decision.

Expanding Access for Teenagers

On Tuesday, Meta revealed plans to grant access to Horizon Worlds to teenagers as young as 13 in Canada and the United States in the coming weeks. The app, which was previously limited to users aged 17 and above, offers a wide range of experiences, including immersive worlds, gaming, concerts, comedy events, and opportunities for creative expression. Meta aims to capture early adopters within this demographic and position itself at the forefront of the next-generation internet.

Mark Zuckerberg’s Vision and Meta’s Investment in VR

Mark Zuckerberg has been a fervent advocate of virtual reality (VR), investing significant resources in the development of VR hardware and software. Horizon Worlds represents his vision for an interconnected virtual world where users can engage with one another, breaking the boundaries of traditional social media. Despite Meta scaling back in other areas, the company spent approximately $16 billion in its Reality Labs segment last year alone. Investors have been cautioned that profitability from this unit may not materialize in the near future.

Lawmakers Express Concerns

The announcement of Horizon Worlds’ expansion to teenagers immediately drew criticism from US lawmakers who had previously urged Meta to reconsider its plans. Connecticut Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal described Meta’s actions as an attempt to boost a failing platform. He and Massachusetts Democratic Senator Ed Markey had previously raised concerns about the impact of Meta’s products, including Instagram, on young users. Markey accused Meta of prioritizing profits over the safety and well-being of teenagers, emphasizing the company’s “abject failure to protect children and teens.”

Civil Society Groups Highlight Risks

In addition to lawmakers, numerous civil society groups voiced their concerns about Meta’s VR offerings. They raised alarms regarding potential privacy risks stemming from the collection of biometric and other data, as well as the potential for unfair and deceptive marketing. There are fears that VR platforms like Horizon Worlds could become breeding grounds for abuse and bullying. The groups emphasize the need for stronger safeguards to protect vulnerable users.

Meta’s decision to open Horizon Worlds to teenagers has ignited a fierce debate. While the company seeks to advance its virtual reality ambitions and attract early adopters, critics argue that Meta’s track record in protecting young users raises serious concerns. Lawmakers and civil society organizations are calling on Meta to reconsider its decision, citing potential risks to mental health and the need for enhanced privacy protections. As the debate continues, striking a balance between technological innovation and responsible usage remains crucial in the realm of virtual reality.