Meta

Meta Platforms, Inc., formerly known as Facebook, is a multinational technology conglomerate primarily known for its social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger. Founded in 2004 by Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook quickly grew into one of the largest social networks in the world. Over the years, the company has expanded its business model, incorporating advertising, data collection, and virtual reality products, with a focus on connecting users globally.

In 2021, Facebook rebranded itself as Meta, signaling its shift toward a broader vision focused on the "metaverse"—a virtual reality, interconnected digital world. Meta has faced ongoing scrutiny over issues related to consumer privacy, data security, content moderation, and its role in spreading misinformation. The company has been involved in several high-profile regulatory and legal challenges, particularly regarding its handling of user data and its impact on user well-being.

Oculus VR Facebook Account Requirement

In October 2020, Facebook required Oculus Quest and Rift S users to sign in with a Facebook account in order to continue to use their purchased VR headsets. This forced integration of Facebook accounts with Oculus devices created several issues for users, particularly those who preferred to keep their VR experience separate from social media.

Because Oculus headsets were now tied to Facebook accounts, users who had their Facebook profiles suspended for any reason found themselves unable to access their purchased content, including games and apps, and unable to use their devices. Facebook offered no options for Oculus VR users aside from to go through Facebook's moderation process to attempt to regain access to their accounts.

Additionally, Oculus account holders who did not want to link to Facebook risked losing access to their purchases entirely. If they did not migrate to a Facebook account, they would no longer be able to use their Oculus headsets or access any content they had purchased from the Oculus Store.

In August 2022, following public backlash, Facebook (now Meta) reversed the policy, allowing users to sign in with a new "Meta account" instead of a Facebook account. This, however, did not stop several original Oculus accounts from being deleted or suspended Facebook users being locked out of their headsets for two years.