Meta might launch its first smartwatch this year
Source: Mashable Tech
Overview
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, might launch an Apple Watch competitor this year. According to a report by The Information, the smartwatch is code‑named “Malibu 2” and will include health‑tracking tools similar to those on other popular smartwatches, including the Apple Watch. A Meta AI assistant will be built into the watch’s software.
Background
The “2” in the code name may refer to an earlier smartwatch project that was ultimately shelved. That earlier device was said to have a built‑in camera, but there is no word on whether the new watch will include that feature.
Potential Integration
Details around the watch are scarce, but the concept fits with Meta’s existing hardware lineup, which includes:
- VR headsets
- Ray‑Ban Meta smart glasses
- Oakley Meta smart glasses
The smartwatch could, for example, be used for gesture‑based control of those gadgets.
Business Context
Meta has been cutting costs on its virtual‑reality efforts, recently laying off more than 1,000 employees working on the company’s vision of the metaverse. CEO Andrew Bosworth said the company would refocus its metaverse efforts on wearables, which might explain the renewed interest in smartwatches.