‘Pokémon Go’ Developer Niantic Announces Layoffs

The letter also highlighted the slower-than-expected development of the AR market as another contributing factor. Niantic’s games, designed for on-the-go AR experiences, anticipate the eventual emergence of smart glasses that seamlessly integrate augmented reality into daily life. However, current wearable AR devices like Apple’s Vision Pro and the Meta Quest Pro primarily cater to home-based usage for work and entertainment. Niantic’s signature approach to AR, tailored for a future that has yet to fully materialize, necessitated adjustments to align with the current state of the industry.

As the company looks ahead, Niantic may have to wait five to ten years for consumer-friendly versions of the AR technology it envisions. In the meantime, the studio is committed to reconfiguring its strategy and navigating the evolving landscape to continue delivering captivating experiences to its dedicated fanbase.