Meta* Transfers VR Fitness App Supernatural to Independent Company

Meta* has made an unusual decision: instead of shutting down the popular VR fitness app Supernatural, the company will transfer it to a new independent entity. The project, originally created by Within studio, will come under the control of Supernatural Health—a company founded by the app’s original developers.

Supernatural emerged amid Meta*’s struggles to popularize the metaverse. While other VR initiatives failed to gain traction, the fitness app stood out with its unique approach, turning workouts into an engaging experience. Meta*’s acquisition of Within in 2023 cost $400 million, excluding legal expenses from antitrust battles.

Despite significant investments, Meta* recently announced cuts to its VR development team and a freeze on new Supernatural features. However, following a wave of user backlash, the company agreed to hand the project over to an independent team. Supernatural Health has promised to retain the existing coaching staff and core app principles, emphasizing that independence will allow better focus on community growth.

The transition of Supernatural to new management is scheduled for late 2024. Meta* expressed support for the initiative, calling it the best solution for the project’s future. Users, who had feared the app’s closure, greeted the news with enthusiasm, though some remain skeptical about the outcome.