Meta's 'Malibu 2' Smartwatch Set for 2025 Launch with Health Features
Meta is reportedly gearing up to introduce a new smartwatch, code-named 'Malibu 2', as early as this year, according to a recent report by The Information. This device is expected to come equipped with advanced health-tracking features that could rival those found on the Apple Watch, marking a significant step in Meta's expansion into the wearable technology market.
Smartwatch Launch and Updated Smart Glasses
The smartwatch may debut alongside an updated version of Meta's Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, which were initially launched in 2025. The Ray-Ban glasses have proven to be highly popular, with Meta previously pausing their international rollout due to "unprecedented demand and limited inventory." This dual launch strategy could help Meta strengthen its presence in the consumer electronics space.
Background and Previous Attempts
Notably, this is not Meta's first foray into smartwatches. The company, formerly known as Facebook-parent, had earlier scrapped plans for a smartwatch in 2022 due to technical challenges and cost-cutting measures. The revival of this project with the 'Malibu 2' indicates a renewed commitment to wearable technology, despite past setbacks.
Details about the 'Malibu 2' smartwatch remain scarce, but it follows Meta's existing portfolio, which includes a range of VR headsets, accessories, and smart glasses like the Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta models. The report comes at a time when Meta is implementing cost reductions in its virtual reality efforts, including significant job cuts.
Reality Labs Restructuring and Strategic Shift
Last month, Meta announced a restructuring of its Reality Labs division, resulting in over 1,000 job cuts. Chief Technology Officer Andrew Bosworth described these cuts as a necessary step to create a "more sustainable" business model for the division. This move signals a strategic pivot away from the company's heavy focus on the "metaverse" towards opportunities in Artificial Intelligence (AI) wearables and mobile integration.
In an internal memo, Bosworth emphasized the shift, stating, "With the larger potential user base and the fastest growth rate today, we are shifting teams and resources almost exclusively to mobile to continue to accelerate adoption there." This aligns with broader industry trends where companies are increasingly investing in AI-driven wearable devices.
Delayed Mixed Reality Plans
Alongside the smartwatch news, Meta has also delayed its plans for mixed reality glasses, code-named Phoenix, pushing their launch to 2027. Reality Labs, which has been the primary focus for Meta's virtual and augmented reality ambitions, has incurred billions in losses since its inception, prompting these strategic adjustments.
As Meta navigates these changes, the launch of the 'Malibu 2' smartwatch could represent a key milestone in its efforts to diversify beyond social media and VR, tapping into the growing demand for health-focused wearable technology.
