META
Meta just pushed back its biggest headset yet
Meta is delaying its next mixed-reality headset.
The device, called Phoenix, was meant to launch in late 2026 but will now arrive in early 2027, according to internal memos seen by Business Insider.
Meta leaders say they need more time to finalise major UX changes and avoid releasing anything that isn’t fully stable, recognising the stakes are high as they race other tech giants to land the first hit mainstream gadget of the AI age.
The headset has a goggle-style design and connects to a separate power puck, which helps keep it lighter and prevents overheating.
Employees who’ve seen it say it looks similar to Apple’s Vision Pro.
The delay follows feedback from Mark Zuckerberg, who asked teams to focus on product quality and long-term sustainability.
Meta also told staff the extra time is not meant for adding new features.
In short:
Phoenix is now scheduled for early 2027 so Meta can focus on stability and quality.
Reality Labs teams are adjusting timelines as the company reviews budgets.
New hardware plans continue, including Malibu 2, the next Quest, and AI wearables.
🎶 It’s budget season 🎶
Meta still has other hardware planned.
A limited-edition device called “Malibu 2” is expected in 2026, and work has begun on a new Quest aimed at better gaming performance and improved costs.
These changes come as Meta reorganises its metaverse division and considers budget cuts of up to 30%.
At the same time, it’s expanding into AI hardware, including its recent purchase of Limitless, a company building AI-powered wearable pendants.
The Vision Pro resemblance??? Yeah, everybody clocked it. - MG