Meta Revisits Smartwatch Launch Plans for 2025 or 2026 to Boost AI Device Use

Meta's smartwatch project is back, with reports suggesting a launch in September 2025 or later in 2026. This is a change from earlier plans that were stopped.
By Newsroom | Technology, Wearables |

Recent reports indicate Meta is reviving its smartwatch project, with proposed launch timelines appearing to fluctuate and a renewed focus on device integration, particularly with its smart glasses and AI initiatives. The company's approach to wearables has seen multiple iterations, suggesting an ongoing effort to establish a cohesive hardware ecosystem. This resurgence follows earlier attempts that were reportedly shelved due to various development challenges and broader company restructuring.

Meta reboots smartwatch plan, aims debut in 2026, the Information reports - 1

Meta has historically explored smartwatch concepts, with early plans dating back approximately five years. These initial endeavors reportedly included diverse features and a multi-camera approach, but were ultimately halted in 2022 as part of cost-saving measures within its Reality Labs division. The current re-engagement with this project is framed within Meta's broader hardware ambitions, including the development of augmented and mixed-reality glasses. Concerns about overwhelming consumers with too many new devices released too quickly appear to be a factor in the company's reassessment of its product rollout strategies. Meta has also acknowledged supply chain and demand issues affecting other hardware, such as the Ray-Ban Display glasses.

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Meta reboots smartwatch plan, aims debut in 2026, the Information reports - 2

  • Key Developments:

  • Revival of the "Malibu 2" smartwatch project.

  • Potential launch timed with the Meta Connect conference.

  • Emphasis on integration with Meta's AI glasses and Quest devices.

  • Reported partnership with Huaqin Technology for manufacturing.

  • Recalibration of launch timelines, with some reports suggesting 2026 and others September 2025.

Meta has declined to comment on these developing reports.

Meta reboots smartwatch plan, aims debut in 2026, the Information reports - 3

Evolving Device Timelines and Strategic Adjustments

Reports regarding Meta's smartwatch project have presented varying timelines for its potential release. Some accounts suggest a debut as early as September 2025, potentially coinciding with the Meta Connect developer conference. Other reports, however, indicate a later launch, targeting 2026. This discrepancy in projected release dates may reflect ongoing strategic adjustments within Meta's hardware development pipeline. The company is reportedly reassessing its product launch schedules to mitigate potential consumer confusion from releasing numerous devices in close succession. This cautious approach is also evident in the pause of international expansion for its Ray-Ban Display glasses due to supply constraints and strong domestic demand.

Meta reboots smartwatch plan, aims debut in 2026, the Information reports - 4

  • Reported Launch Windows:

  • September 2025: Mentioned in connection with the Meta Connect conference.

  • Later in 2026: Cited in reports detailing a rebooted project timeline.

Features and Integration: A Focus on AI and Ecosystem

The revived smartwatch project, reportedly codenamed "Malibu 2," is expected to incorporate key features aligning with Meta's broader technological trajectory. While specific details remain under wraps, reports highlight the inclusion of health tracking capabilities and a built-in Meta AI assistant. A recurring theme across multiple reports is the potential for a camera integrated into the device, a feature that was also part of earlier smartwatch concepts but faced development hurdles. This camera functionality, along with AI capabilities, is seen as a way to foster deeper integration between Meta's AI advancements, its wearable hardware, and its immersive product lineup, including smart glasses and Quest headsets. The device is positioned not just as a standalone wearable but as a complementary component within a larger Meta hardware ecosystem.

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  • Anticipated Features:

  • Health tracking.

  • Built-in Meta AI assistant.

  • Integrated camera(s) (potentially dual-camera system).

  • Possible neural interface for wrist-movement commands.

Project History and Development Cycles

Meta's pursuit of a smartwatch has followed a protracted and cyclical path. The initial smartwatch project was reportedly conceived approximately five years ago, with various iterations explored, including plans for multi-camera configurations. This early effort was ultimately discontinued in 2022 amidst wider spending cutbacks in the Reality Labs division. The current revival suggests a renewed commitment to wearable technology, but the project's history of cancellation and resurgence raises questions about its developmental trajectory and the challenges that may have influenced past decisions. The original project reportedly encountered significant obstacles, particularly concerning its camera system and its interference with experimental neural interface technologies.

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  • Key Historical Points:

  • Initial exploration: ~5 years ago.

  • Project shelving: 2022, linked to Reality Labs budget cuts.

  • Challenges: Camera system interference with neural interface tech.

  • Current revival: Indicates renewed strategic interest.

Strategic Positioning and Competitive Landscape

The renewed focus on a smartwatch with integrated cameras and AI positions Meta within a dynamic wearable technology market. The device is reportedly designed to augment Meta's existing and upcoming smart glasses and VR headsets, aiming to create a more interconnected user experience. This strategy suggests a departure from the health and notification-centric approach of many established smartwatches, leaning instead towards an experience centered on interacting with the surrounding environment and leveraging AI capabilities. While Meta has not publicly confirmed these plans, the repeated reports of a revived smartwatch project underscore the company's persistent interest in expanding its hardware footprint beyond VR and AR devices. The integration of AI and advanced camera features is intended to differentiate Meta's offering and strengthen its position within the competitive landscape of connected devices.

  • Differentiating Factors:

  • Emphasis on environmental interaction via cameras.

  • Deep integration with Meta's AI and smart glasses.

  • Potential for novel input methods like wrist-movement translation.

Expert Perspectives and Industry Context

Industry observers note that Meta's continued investment in wearable hardware, including its smartwatches and AR/MR glasses, signifies a long-term commitment to building a comprehensive ecosystem. The revival of the smartwatch project, particularly with its focus on AI and camera integration, reflects a broader industry trend towards more intelligent and context-aware wearables. However, the project's history of cancellation and the perceived complexity of integrating advanced features like cameras without compromising user experience or other technological goals, remain points of attention. The company's ability to navigate these technical and strategic challenges will be crucial in determining the success of its latest smartwatch endeavor.

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  • Industry Observations:

  • Meta's consistent focus on a unified hardware ecosystem.

  • Industry shift towards AI-enhanced wearables.

  • Past developmental hurdles as a cautionary note.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

The ongoing reports of Meta reviving its smartwatch project, potentially featuring integrated cameras and AI capabilities, indicate a persistent strategic objective to expand its wearable hardware offerings. While the projected launch timelines vary, with some suggesting a September 2025 debut and others pointing to 2026, the recurring themes of AI integration, complementary device functionality, and potential manufacturing partnerships provide a consistent narrative. The project's historical challenges, including its previous cancellation and reported technical difficulties, suggest that development is likely undergoing significant reassessment and refinement. Meta's decision to re-engage with this endeavor, alongside its ongoing work in AR and MR glasses, underscores its ambition to forge a more integrated hardware ecosystem. The success of this revived smartwatch project will likely depend on its ability to effectively combine novel features with a coherent user experience and to overcome the developmental hurdles that previously impeded its progress.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Meta looking at its smartwatch project again?
Meta is reportedly reviving its smartwatch project to better connect its AI glasses and VR headsets. This helps build a stronger group of Meta devices for people to use.
Q: When might Meta launch its new smartwatch?
Reports give different dates. Some say it could be as early as September 2025, maybe with the Meta Connect event. Others say it might be later, in 2026.
Q: What new features might Meta's smartwatch have?
The smartwatch, possibly called "Malibu 2," may have health tracking and a built-in Meta AI helper. It might also have one or two cameras.
Q: Why did Meta stop its smartwatch project before?
Meta first planned a smartwatch about five years ago but stopped it in 2022. This was part of cost cuts in its Reality Labs part of the company. There were also problems with the camera system.
Q: How does the smartwatch fit with Meta's other devices?
Meta wants the smartwatch to work closely with its smart glasses and Quest VR headsets. The goal is to make a connected experience where all devices work together easily, especially with AI features.