Mozilla, best known for its online browser Firefox, has entered the metaverse development space and Web3 following the surge of other legacy online networks. In a November 30 release, the web developer confirmed its acquisition of Active Replica, a Web3 tech startup.
Active Replica, a technology company founded in 2020, specializes in developing VR-forward collaboration tools and virtual events. The technology company is well known for offering virtual event packages with personalized live entertainment, venue design, and event management.
According to the post by Mozilla’s SVP Imo Udom, the Active Replica will now focus on Mozilla’s chat-based VR platform, the Mozilla Hubs. In particular, the Active Replica team will focus on adding new features and enhancing the Hubs onboarding process. Mozilla’s decision to forward its metaverse initiatives arises as the metaverse continues to build interest inside and outside the Web3 industry.
The developers of Active Replica, Valerian Denis and Jacob Ervin, have recently joined in new positions at Mozilla
Although the details of the deal’s financial arrangement remain unknown, given that both parties have previously collaborated, it will be simple to integrate Active Replica into the Mozilla Hubs ecosystem. Previously, Active Replica and Mozilla collaborated on Mozilla’s Mozfest, an event centered on the fusion of technology and art.
Denis is now the product lead, and Ervin is the senior engineering manager. The creator of the Firefox internet browser stated that Active Replica and Mozilla Hubs are a perfect match, since they both have the same goals for advancing digital and metaverse innovation.
Mozilla released Hubs in 2018. It offers the development tools and infrastructure required to access a portal using any browser and communicate with others in a VR environment. Hubs adhere to web standards and support all standard goggles and headsets (e.g., HTC Vive, Oculus Rift) while being accessible to individuals without specialist VR devices on smartphones and PCs.
Mozilla will soon launch a free Hubs version
Recently, Mozilla’s Hubs introduced a $20 per month service with new privacy protections, account management tools, and security features. The company intends to relaunch a free version and roll out other tiers in the future.
Additionally, it will offer integrations with current collaboration tools, avatars, custom spaces, and identity options. Active Replica’s official statement said it would continue to engage with existing partners but that the Mozilla takeover would help it achieve its long-term aims.
Mozilla announced another acquisition the next day — Pulse, a machine learning developer, indicating the company’s shift to concentrate on the future of technology.
Meanwhile, Mozilla joins the metaverse’s leading social media networks, including Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook. In October, Google revealed plans to release its metaverse platform in collaboration with cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase.
The acquisition of Active Replica by Mozilla does not appear to be a surprise: after all, the services provided by Active Replica are based on Hubs. According to Mozilla management, the acquisition would guarantee that Hubs could be expanded further. For instance, it will work on improved personal subscription formulas and metaverse interaction methods.
An extraordinarily exciting day…we’re delighted to continue our vision of using virtual environments to facilitate joyous meetings.Active Replica founders
Acquisitions and mergers are widespread in today’s expanding financial world, and frequently, businesses that sell themselves for acquisition are looking for a deeper purpose to join. As the metaverse develops and is anticipated to reach $996 billion by 2030, Mozilla’s engagement with an active participant in the industry will allow it to establish a reputation in the space and follow its initial aim further.
While there are a variety of other less-than-good reasons why companies are owned, Active Replica’s union with the Mozilla brand is centered on powering a highly usable internet regardless of human involvement diversity. With Mozilla’s support and resources, Active Replica is expected to achieve its potential and long-term goals quickly.
