Meta Platforms might be reviving its smartwatch project and launch its debut watch this year. The Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, parent had a plan to release the watch under a project called Malibu 2, a few years ago. However, the project was abandoned. Now, sources say that it will be releasing its debut Meta smartwatch in 2026 with inputs from its Reality Labs division.

The Information was the first agency to report the revival of the smart watch project and cited people familiar with the matter. The new smartwatch is expected to have health tracking as well as AI features. Many global tech companies such as Apple, Samsung, and Garmin already offer wearable devices, and their smartwatches are already established in the market.

In September, Meta unveiled Meta Rayban Display glasses. These smart glasses using wearable AR have a neural wristband for gesture controls. It is likely that a smartwatch from Meta could replace the wristband.

Meta Rayban Display glasses have been very popular in the United States. The demand has been higher than the supply and Meta is looking at unveiling an updated version that reportedly has the code name Hypernova 2. It is possible that a smartwatch can be used along with these glasses keeping its operations within its own ecosystem.

Meta had considered launching smart glasses in 2022. However, it faced technical as well as financial challenges and the project was reportedly shelved. Now the company is stronger and the glasses division is outperforming. Adding a smart watch or bringing out a smart watch as an individual item makes sense as the company looks to expand further and has the financial means as well as the technical knowledge to do so.

Meta has also said that it is developing mixed reality glasses that are expected to be launched next year. This project is code named Phoenix.