Meta likely to launch smartwatch in 2026: Report

Meta aims to release a smartwatch featuring health monitoring and AI capabilities later this year, alongside the latest version of its Meta Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, according to The Information. 

It's anticipated that the watch will make its debut before Meta's mixed reality glasses, code-named Phoenix, which have been reportedly delayed until 2027 as the company works to refine its AR and MR strategy.

Earlier, in 2022, Meta cancelled a smartwatch project over technical issues and the need to manage expenses. 

If the forthcoming watch, known as Malibu 2, is released, it could heighten the rivalry with Apple, which is rumored to be developing AI-enhanced smart glasses expected to launch next year, possibly competing with Meta’s glasses. 

Meta will also face tough competition for wrist-worn device users from Google, Garmin, Samsung, Fitbit, and others.

The Malibu 2 smartwatch follows the introduction of Meta's Ray-Ban Display AR glasses last year, which achieved enough success to necessitate a postponement of their international release due to “unexpectedly high demand and limited stock.”

These Ray-Ban Display glasses employ a neural wristband for gesture control, which could be substituted by a smartwatch.