Meta CTO Responds to Debate on “MR” Meaning. Meta’s CTO, Andrew Bosworth, has addressed criticism over the company’s decision to use “MR” to refer to both Mixed Reality (MR) and Virtual Reality (VR).

How Meta Defines VR and MR

Meta explained in 2024, the difference between VR & MR. The transition of using only VR to address both is meant to make things simpler for new users.

What is VR?

VR (Virtual Reality) creates a completely digital world where you can’t see your real surroundings. It’s used for gaming, simulations, and virtual experiences where everything around you is digital.

What is MR?

MR (Mixed Reality) combines digital objects with the real world. With MR, you can see your surroundings while also interacting with virtual elements using advanced technology like passthrough.

What’s the Controversy?

Previously, Meta clearly differentiated between MR and VR by using the term “VR/MR.” However, the company has now switched to using only “MR” across its website, blog posts, and developer communications.

This change has sparked a backlash from developers and industry professionals who argue that MR and VR are distinct technologies, and lumping them under one term creates confusion among consumers.

Andrew Bosworth’s Response

Andrew Bosworth strongly dismissed the controversy, calling it:

“One of the most absolutely manufactured controversies of all time.”

He further added:

“Just a total fabrication of the community out of nothingness.”

Why Did Meta Make This Change?

According to Bosworth, Meta’s decision to focus on “Mixed Reality” terminology came from market research. He explained:

“We use the term mixed reality more often in public and internally because there was some confusion in the marketplace. Since Apple leaned so hard into marketing mixed reality features for the Apple Vision Pro, we wanted to make sure people were aware that Quest 3 in particular was as good as, or in my opinion better than, what they get elsewhere“

In simple terms, Meta wants to position Quest 3 as a direct competitor to Apple Vision Pro, which heavily promotes “Mixed Reality.” By using the same term, Meta aims to ensure potential buyers recognize Quest 3’s capabilities.

Meta’s Marketing Strategy

Bosworth emphasized that this terminology shift is primarily aimed at people who haven’t yet adopted VR/MR technology. He clarified:

“So often this community is so crazy. Listen, if you’re watching this, you’re in – I don’t need to talk to you. I’m trying to get more people in! You know that, right? Most people we’re marketing to, they’re not you. They’re not following my AMAs. They’re the people who have currently chosen not to buy in, and we’d like them to. And I figure out how to help them do that.”

Final Thoughts

Meta believes this branding change will make it easier to attract new customers and promote Quest 3’s capabilities more effectively. However, many in the industry remain skeptical, arguing that combining MR and VR under one term only adds to consumer confusion.