Meta Platforms, the company behind Instagram and Facebook, is reviving its long-planned smartwatch project and targeting a 2026 release for its first wearable. The move signals a renewed push into the wearable tech market, which now centers on artificial intelligence and health tracking as major consumer trends.
Meta originally paused its smartwatch development in 2022 amid broader cost cuts, but the company has now revived the project, code-named “Malibu 2,” and is planning a device with health monitoring and a built-in AI assistant.
Experts say this step puts Meta in more direct competition with other tech giants already established in the wearables space.
Meta’s Renewed Smartwatch Plans
What Meta Is Planning
According to a report from The Information, Meta plans to launch its first smartwatch later in 2026. The upcoming device is expected to include health tracking features and an integrated Meta AI assistant, which could help with voice commands, notifications and personalized user interactions. Meta has declined to comment publicly on the plans.
The smartwatch project was previously explored nearly five years ago, including prototypes that at one point featured multiple cameras, but development was shelved in 2022 amid spending pullbacks at Meta’s Reality Labs division.
Timing and Market Context
Wearables, especially those with fitness, tracking and AI features — are a growing segment as consumers look for devices that support health monitoring and smart digital interaction without needing a phone. Meta’s reboot comes as several rivals such as Apple, Google and Samsung continue to refine their wearable offerings.
Why This Matters
Meta’s Strategy Shift
Meta’s decision to restart its smartwatch plans reflects a broader shift in the company’s hardware priorities. After years of heavy investment in virtual reality, augmented reality and the metaverse, Meta has signaled a stronger focus on wearable devices that tie directly into users’ everyday technology habits.
The revived smartwatch effort moves Meta deeper into direct competition with established players in the smartwatch market and aligns with growing demand for devices that blend fitness, connectivity and AI.
AI and Health Tracking
By integrating a built-in AI assistant along with health tracking capabilities, Meta’s smartwatch could appeal to consumers looking for more personalized experiences, from wellness insights to voice-activated digital functionality. Wearables with advanced AI features are becoming central to tech companies’ long-term strategies as they expand beyond smartphones.
Bottom Line
Meta Platforms has revived its smartwatch project, aiming for a 2026 release of a device that includes health monitoring and a built-in AI assistant. The reboot comes after Meta paused smartwatch development in 2022 and follows a wider tech industry trend toward integrating artificial intelligence into wearable devices. If Meta successfully brings this product to market, it will join a competitive space alongside existing smartwatch leaders and reinforce its broader focus on AI-driven consumer technology.
Read more: Meta plans up to $135 B for AI in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What device is Meta planning to release?
Meta plans to release its first smartwatch, internally known as “Malibu 2,” featuring health tracking and an AI assistant, with a targeted launch in 2026.
Has Meta worked on smartwatches before?
Yes. Meta explored smartwatch projects about five years ago but paused development in 2022 as part of broader cost-cutting measures.
What features might the watch have?
Reports suggest the smartwatch will include health monitoring features along with an integrated Meta AI assistant.
Why is Meta entering the smartwatch market now?
Demand for wearables with AI and health-focused features is growing, and Meta is shifting toward products designed for everyday use as consumer technology trends evolve.
Who will Meta compete with?
Meta’s smartwatch is expected to compete with devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, and other established wearable manufacturers.
Meta has revived its smartwatch project, planning a 2026 launch for a device with health tracking and a built-in AI assistant, marking a renewed push into wearable tech driven by artificial intelligence trends.
