Meta is shutting down Spark, its AR effects platform for WhatsApp, Instagram, here’s how it will affect you

Meta

Meta has revealed that it is pulling the plug on Spark – its platform for third-party tools and content -- The platform, according to the official blog post, will shut down completely starting January 15, 2025.

As per the blog post, all the Augmented Reality (AR) effects built by third parties using the Spark platform will no longer be available by the said date. Also, this includes the effects developed by the brands and the entire community of AR Creators.

However, Meta has clarified that all the assets that are owned by Meta will be available to the users via their apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook and others.

What it means for users

As far as users are concerned, they might have to do away with the third-party AR filters that third-party creators have added to the Meta platforms that were built using Spark. However, users who rely on Meta-owned AR effects won’t be affected as they will continue to exist even after Spark’s shutdown.

“Those who use Spark and our third-party AR Effects can continue to use these tools across our Family of Apps until January 14, 2025, mentions the blog post.

Why Meta is shutting down Spark

Meta hasn’t clarified the exact reason behind the shutdown, the post only mentions “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. We are committed to making this transition as smooth as possible”.