Move over Pixel Watch: Meta is reportedly bringing its shelved smartwatch back to life

Source: Android Authority

Kaitlyn Cimino / Android Authority

TL;DR

• Meta has reportedly revived “Malibu 2,” a previously shelved smartwatch project expected to launch later this year.
• The new watch will include health‑tracking features and an integrated Meta AI assistant.
• Meta is also planning updates for Ray‑Ban Display glasses (codenamed “Hypernova 2”) and a new pair of AR glasses (codenamed “Artemis”) slated for release in 2027.

Meta’s Wearables Strategy

The wearables market remains fiercely competitive. Meta’s recent success with the Ray‑Ban Meta Glasses has even spurred rivals such as Apple to develop its own glasses.

Revival of the Smartwatch Project

According to a report from The Information (paywalled), citing two sources familiar with the matter, Meta plans to release its first smartwatch this year. The company has revived a previously shelved project now codenamed Malibu 2. Key details include:

• Expected launch: later in 2024
• Core features: health tracking and a built‑in Meta AI assistant

The decision to restart the smartwatch effort followed a strategy meeting held at Mark Zuckerberg’s Hawaii home late last year, where senior executives mapped out Meta’s long‑term product roadmap.

Upcoming Wearable Updates

• Hypernova 2 – a new version of the popular Meta Ray‑Ban Display glasses.
• Artemis – a pair of AR glasses that will display digital content on a single lens, targeted for a 2027 release.

History of Meta’s Smartwatch Plans

Meta has long explored smartwatch concepts, including prototypes with built‑in cameras. However, the company scaled back its ambitions and cancelled its smartwatch projects in 2022. The recent success of its other wearables appears to have reignited interest in a more conventional smartwatch form factor.