The tech giant stated in an official blog post on the Meta Spark Community, that the company’s decision to shut down the studio was part of its efforts to push the products that suit Meta’s customers and consumers.

Meta Spark AR: Background on the AR studio

Meta has clarified that its AR Effects will still be available to its user base. However, the company has stood on the ground, saying it will remove any or all filters that third-party developers have created. The Meta Spark shutdown will take effect on January 14, 2025. After the date of the shutdown, all third-party filters will be hence removed.

Meta Spark was launched in 2017 so it had a good 7-year run. Millions of users made AR effects in the studio. Creators could make AR effects with an existing template or build their custom AR effects with code.

The decision to shut down Spark has been met with criticism, especially from creators who use Spark to create AR effects. Many users have expressed disappointment over Meta’s decision. Some have also questioned Meta’s inner motive to get rid of the studio.

The shutdown could even affect Meta in the long run. Meta could face some trouble if it plans on going head-to-head with other social media giants. Platforms like TikTok and Snapchat provide AR developers with tools and rewards programs. Meta’s bold move to shut down its AR studio might be because the company wants to focus more on its LLM, Llama and other AI tools.

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Meta is looking to fund projects that make use of Llama 3.1, which is the company’s latest LLM model. Proposals developed with the most captivating uses of Llama 3.1 that are beneficial for society will be considered. The Llama 3.1 Impact Grants Program has been built upon previous Llama Impact Grants programs such as the Llama 2 and Llama 3. These grants focused on issues about the environment, education, and worldwide challenges as well as promoting open innovation.

The previous grant programs received more than 800 applications across 90 countries. The runners-up and finalists were also provided mentoring, community and support.

Llama 3.1 Impact Grants Program and its Application Process

There are currently two different ways to apply for the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants. Those interested can either opt for an open call or regional events. The open call invites permitted organisations globally to apply and win up to $5000,000 in funding for projects.

Meta will also be hosting events all over the world and mentor and guide selected applicants. The events will have themes surrounding local stakeholders who want to uphold or shine a spotlight on them. Some of these themes include health technology, agriculture, cultural preservation and more. A monetary award of $100,000 will be offered. Participants who have won in the regional events will also be in the running for the open call.

Interested individuals and groups can apply for the grant through Meta’s portal and applications will be closed on November 22, 2024.

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