Meta has pushed back the release of its upcoming mixed reality glasses, code-named Phoenix, as the company shifts its internal timelines to ensure the device is “fully polished” before launch.
The glasses, originally slated for late 2026, will now debut in the first half of 2027, according to internal memos viewed by Business Insider.
Maher Saba, VP of Reality Labs Foundation, told employees that the decision follows leadership feedback on 2026 plans, including comments from CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
He wrote that teams need “breathing room” and must prioritize quality over speed, emphasizing that the delay is not an opportunity to add features or expand workloads.
In a separate memo, metaverse leaders Gabriel Aul and Ryan Cairns echoed the sentiment, saying the revised timeline is essential to “get the details right” amid tight schedules and significant changes to the core user experience.
Meta declined to comment on the memos.
Inside Meta’s Phoenix mixed reality glasses
Employees who have seen prototypes described Phoenix as having a goggle-like form factor, similar to Apple’s Vision Pro. The device connects to a small power puck, a design choice that reportedly sparked internal debate. Leadership ultimately kept the puck to reduce heat, lighten the headset, and improve comfort.
Earlier reporting by The Information had also revealed details of the glasses’ appearance and functionality.
Shift in strategy after leadership review
Saba told teams that Meta’s Reality Labs leaders recently met Zuckerberg to discuss long-term product plans. The CEO’s guidance centered on making the business sustainable and dedicating more time to producing higher-quality experiences. As a result, many Reality Labs teams will adjust their schedules and delay planned work.
Alongside the Phoenix delay, Meta plans to roll out a “limited edition” wearable device next year, code-named Malibu 2, Saba said.
Aul and Cairns confirmed Meta has also begun early work on its next-generation Quest headset.
They said the device will focus on immersive gaming, include a “large upgrade” in capabilities, and significantly improve unit economics compared to current models.
In October, Meta reorganized its metaverse division and appointed Aul and Cairns — previously heads of Horizon products and VR hardware — to co-lead its metaverse projects.
The company is now weighing budget cuts of up to 30% within Reality Labs, which could impact employees working on virtual spaces like Horizon Worlds.
Meta has also expanded its AI hardware efforts by acquiring Limitless, a startup known for developing AI-powered wearable pendants.
The acquisition hints at the company’s growing interest in integrating AI into personal devices.
