Meta might launch its first smartwatch this year
Mashable
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Meta is reportedly developing its first smartwatch, codenamed "Malibu 2," which could launch as early as this year. The device is expected to feature health-tracking tools similar to those found in popular wearables like the Apple Watch, along with an AI assistant integrated into its software. While details about the watch are still limited, its potential integration with Meta's existing lineup of VR headsets and smart glasses, such as the Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta, suggests a focus on enhancing control over these devices through gesture-based technology.
The "Malibu 2" project appears to be an evolution of an earlier smartwatch initiative that was eventually discontinued. The previous version reportedly included a built-in camera, though it remains unclear if this feature will return in the new iteration. Meta's renewed interest in smartwatches aligns with its strategic shift toward wearables following cost-cutting measures in its virtual reality division. CEO Andrew Bosworth has indicated that the company plans to refocus its metaverse efforts on wearable technology, which could position the Malibu 2 as a key product in this reimagined vision.
For tech enthusiasts and industry watchers, Meta's entry into the smartwatch market is significant for several reasons. First, it signals the company's broader push into wearables, a growing segment that includes players like Apple, Samsung, and Google. Second, the integration of AI and potential connectivity with existing Meta products like VR headsets and smart glasses could create a more cohesive ecosystem for users. Finally, as competition in the wearable tech space intensifies, Meta's move underscores its determination to establish itself as a major player beyond social media and virtual reality. Whether the Malibu 2 will succeed in this crowded market remains to be seen, but its development already highlights Meta's strategic pivot and its bet on wearables as the future of technology.
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Originally published on Mashable on 2/19/2026