A major report says Meta has revived a smartwatch project code-named Malibu 2 and plans to ship the device later in 2026. The watch will focus on health tracking and will include a built-in Meta AI assistant. The report originated from a subscription news outlet and was summarized by broader news services.
The development marks a fresh push into wearables for a company that already sells popular Ray Ban smart glasses. The new watch would give Meta a wrist-based partner for its eyewear and other devices. That pairing could enable new gesture controls and richer cross-device interactions.
New Meta Watch
The revived project traces back to early work on a wrist computer that was paused in 2022. Early prototypes reportedly tested camera-based designs and several hardware variants. The current plan centers on health features and on an on device assistant that ties into the wider Meta ecosystem. The initial report cites people with knowledge of the program and notes that the company declined to comment.
The watch will likely include sensors for heart rate and for sleep. The device may also track activity and stress. Meta aims to compete with established watch makers and with phone maker platforms that already sell smartwatches. Market rivals include Apple and several Android-focused brands. The entry will raise new questions about battery design, accuracy of health metrics, and app support.
Timing and tech
Reports say the product is due this year and that the company has kept the project on a fast timeline. The company has also been working on multiple mixed reality and glasses projects, and it is staggering releases so products do not compete with one another. The revived Malibu 2 watch could therefore arrive ahead of other wearables in the company pipeline.
The device is expected to include an on-board Meta AI assistant for quick help and for simple tasks. The assistant will likely work closely with a paired phone to do heavier processing. That split helps extend battery life and keeps the watch small and light. The watch may also run a set of apps that use health data and sensors for personalized guidance.
User impact view
A Meta watch that works across Android and iOS phones would appeal to users who switch platforms. A watch from Meta could also pair well with Ray Ban glasses. The combination could yield voice and wrist controls that make hands-free tasks easier. People who care about accuracy in medical-grade measurements should wait for independent tests. Real-world tests will show how the sensors compare to other devices on the market.
Privacy and regulatory questions will follow. Cameras and always-on sensors raise concerns about consent and about how data is stored. The company will need clear controls and honest settings for users. Privacy groups and regulators will be keen on the rollout.
