Outlook Business Desk
Meta has postponed the launch of its Phoenix mixed reality glasses, originally planned for early 2026, pushing it to the first half of 2027 to prioritise a polished user experience.
VP of Reality Labs Foundation at Meta, Maher Saba, along with other Reality Labs leaders, informed employees about the updated timeline through internal memos, and, according to Business Insider, emphasised the extension focuses on quality, not new features.
Following a meeting with CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Maher Saba shared feedback highlighting the importance of sustainable business planning and high-quality delivery, prompting Reality Labs teams to adjust their project timelines.
Additionally, Metaverse leaders Gabriel Aul and Ryan Cairns stated in internal memos that the extended timelines give teams time to refine the user experience, avoid rushed development and ensure a reliable product launch.
Reports indicate Phoenix glasses could resemble Apple Vision Pro, featuring a lighter, more comfortable goggle-like design that may need external power to operate while avoiding overheating.
Meanwhile, Meta plans to release a limited edition wearable, codenamed Malibu 2, in 2026, offering an interim device while the Phoenix mixed reality glasses continue development toward 2027.
The company is also developing a next-generation Quest device focused on immersive gaming, offering major capability upgrades, and improved unit economics compared with existing devices.
Meta recently acquired AI wearable startup Limitless, which makes a pendant that records, transcribes and summarises conversations, serving as a personal memory aid integrated within Meta’s ecosystem.