Meta’s Instagram Goes 3D: A New VR Play for Your Old Photos

Plus, Navigator and Bluetooth Audio Arrive in Quest’s v77 Update

Meta is blurring the lines between flat images and immersive worlds once again. This week, the company begins testing a feature that converts 2D Instagram photos into 3D experiences for Meta Quest VR headsets. Using AI algorithms, the tool transforms your existing gallery into depth-aware scenes—no fancy camera required. But don’t rush to check your feed yet: access is limited, and not all users will see the option immediately.

“This isn’t Meta’s first 3D rodeo. They launched a similar feature for Facebook in 2018, but AI advancements now make it faster and more scalable,” says a source familiar with the project.

The move aligns with Meta’s aggressive push into mixed reality. Alongside the Instagram test, the v77 update for Quest headsets rolls out Navigator—a streamlined hub for apps, settings, and notifications. Triggered by pressing the Meta/Oculus button on the right controller, it lets users pin up to 10 favorite items and displays recently-used apps for quick switching. It’s a small but meaningful tweak to reduce friction in VR’s often-clunky UI.

But Meta isn’t stopping there. The update also introduces experimental Bluetooth Low Energy audio support, potentially cutting latency for wireless earbuds. Another niche-but-handy addition: the follow-window feature, which keeps critical system panels (like notifications) locked in your field of view as you move. And for PC VR users, Meta consolidates Meta Quest Link, casting, and remote desktop into Horizon for PC—a single app to rule them all.

These updates hint at Meta’s broader strategy: making VR less isolating and more connected to existing digital habits. By pulling Instagram into the 3D fold and smoothing out headset navigation, the company bets that convenience—not just flashy tech—will finally push VR beyond early adopters. Whether users agree depends on how well these features stick the landing.