Meta's Billion-Dollar Bets: 9 Acquisitions That Built its Tech Empire
Poulami Saha
Instagram – USD 1 Billion (2012)
Facebook acquired Instagram for approximately USD 1 billion in cash and shares, expanding its mobile photography presence and creating opportunities for advertising and social engagement.
WhatsApp – USD 19 Billion (2014)
Facebook announced a USD 16 billion deal plus USD 3 billion in restricted stock units, adding a rapidly growing messaging platform serving global users.
Oculus VR – USD 2 Billion (2014)
Oculus acquisition advances Meta's virtual reality ambitions. Facebook acquired Oculus VR to expand beyond mobile platforms, investing in immersive
Onavo – Reported USD 120 Million (2013)
Facebook acquired Israeli analytics company Onavo, gaining mobile usage insights and technology that supported its understanding of competing applications and consumer behaviour.
LiveRail – Reported USD 500 Million (2014)
Facebook acquired video advertising technology company LiveRail, expanding its ability to connect advertisers with audiences through automated video ad placement and targeting.
MSQRD – Undisclosed (2016)
Facebook acquired the face-filter application MSQRD, adding facial tracking technology and visual effects capabilities that influenced its camera products and augmented reality experiences
CTRL-labs – Reported USD 500 Million to USD 1 Billion (2019)
Facebook acquired CTRL-labs, a startup developing neural interface technology designed to translate electrical signals from the nervous system into digital device controls.
Beat Games – Undisclosed (2019)
Facebook acquired the studio behind Beat Saber, strengthening its VR gaming ecosystem and supporting interactive entertainment experiences across Oculus virtual reality headsets.
Within – Approximately USD 400 Million (2023)
Meta completed its acquisition of virtual reality fitness developer Within, bringing the Supernatural workout application into its growing portfolio of immersive fitness and wellness experiences.