Meta Reports First-Ever Decline in Daily Active Users in Q1 2026

Meta experienced a rare decline in its daily active user count during the first quarter of 2026. The company reported 3.56 billion daily active users across its family of apps, down slightly from 3.58 billion in Q4 2025. This marks the first time Meta has seen a drop in this key metric.

According to Meta, the decline was primarily caused by internet disruptions in Iran and a ban on WhatsApp in Russia. The Russian government has restricted access to WhatsApp and other messaging apps in favor of state-controlled alternatives. Meta also noted possible user losses in Australia due to new restrictions on teen social media usage.

Despite the drop in daily active users, Meta’s revenue continued to grow strongly. The company generated $56.31 billion in revenue for the quarter, representing a 33% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth was driven by higher ad impressions, which rose 19% year-over-year, and a 12% increase in average ad prices.

Meta’s total costs and expenses rose 35% to $33.44 billion, largely due to heavy investments in artificial intelligence initiatives. The company has also been reducing staff in certain areas while increasing headcount in AI-related roles. Losses in its Reality Labs division, which handles metaverse and AR/VR efforts, were slightly reduced following recent job cuts.

The Q1 results highlight a mixed picture for Meta. While the company remains highly profitable and maintains an enormous user base – still reaching more than one-third of the global population daily – the first decline in daily active users signals potential challenges in maintaining engagement amid geopolitical issues and regulatory pressures.