Meta Smartwatch 2026 Could Transform Wearables With Meta AI and Smart Glasses Integration

What You need to Know

• Meta is developing a new smartwatch codenamed Malibu 2 with a possible launch in 2026.

• The watch is being developed alongside an updated version of Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses.

• Meta previously cancelled its 2021 smartwatch project in 2022 due to hardware cutbacks and technical challenges.

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Meta is again set to enter the smartwatch market, and this time, it seems more serious about developing a comprehensive wearables ecosystem. According to a report by The Information, Meta is working on a new smartwatch named Malibu 2, which may see the light of day in 2026.

This new smartwatch will come with highly advanced health monitoring features and will be deeply integrated with Meta AI, which marks the beginning of Meta’s plan to integrate smart glasses, AI, and wearable hardware into a seamless ecosystem.

For AndroBranch readers, this is another indication of Meta’s increasing interest in developing AI-driven consumer hardware products beyond social media platforms.

Meta’s Smartwatch Comeback

Meta’s smartwatch experience has not been without hiccups. The company first started developing a smartwatch in 2021. But in 2022, the development was allegedly cancelled due to hardware reductions and issues.

The earlier models were expected to have:

• An in-built camera

• Various designs

• Social and communication functionalities

But now, with Malibu 2, Meta is ready to make a comeback in this segment with a more defined long-term plan. Although it is not yet clear how much of the earlier development work has been incorporated into this new model, the fact that Meta is making another attempt at this device is a testament to the fact that they are very passionate about having a wrist-worn companion device.

Designed to Work With Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses

One of the most interesting aspects of this smartwatch is its expected integration with Meta’s smart glasses.

Currently, Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses rely on a neural wristband for gesture controls. This wristband allows users to control apps and interact with the glasses using hand movements.

However, a smartwatch could potentially replace this wristband.

If Malibu 2 takes over that role, users may be able to:

• Manage notifications directly from their wrist

• Control apps on smart glasses

• Trigger Meta AI voice commands

• Interact with augmented reality features

• Use gesture-based controls through the watch

This would significantly simplify Meta’s wearable ecosystem and reduce the need for multiple accessories.

Meta AI Integration

Unlike traditional smartwatches that focus primarily on health and notifications, Meta’s biggest strength lies in AI.

The Malibu 2 smartwatch is expected to integrate Meta AI, enabling:

• AI-powered voice assistance

• Context-aware responses

• Real-time translation support

• Smart notifications

• Cross-device AI interaction between glasses and watch

Instead of just tracking steps or heart rate, the device could become an AI control hub for Meta’s wearables.

This could differentiate Meta from competitors who largely focus on fitness metrics and app ecosystems.

Part of a Bigger AR and Mixed Reality Vision

Meta’s smartwatch is not an isolated product. It appears to be part of a larger augmented and mixed reality roadmap.

Reports suggest Meta is also working on Phoenix mixed reality glasses, although their launch has reportedly been delayed until 2027.

If true, the smartwatch could serve as:

• A controller for AR glasses

• A biometric data source for immersive experiences

• A companion device for spatial computing

Meta has long been investing in AR and VR through its Reality Labs division. A smartwatch could act as a natural extension of that strategy.

If launched in 2026, Meta’s smartwatch will enter an extremely competitive market.

Here are the key players it will compete against:

• Apple with its Apple Watch dominating the premium smartwatch segment

• Samsung with the Galaxy Watch for Android users

• Google offering the Pixel Watch

• Garmin known for advanced fitness-focused wearables

• Fitbit focusing on health tracking

• Oura Health with its wellness-focused smart ring

Unlike Apple or Samsung, Meta does not yet have a proven smartwatch platform. That could make early adoption slower.

However, Meta’s advantage may not lie in health features alone.

What Could Differentiate Meta’s Smartwatch?

Meta’s potential edge in the market may come from:

1. Cross-Platform Support

Unlike Apple’s tightly controlled ecosystem, Meta may offer broader compatibility across Android and possibly iOS.

2. AI-First Experience

Deep Meta AI integration could make the watch more intelligent and proactive than competitors.

3. Smart Glasses Ecosystem

Users investing in Meta’s glasses may see added value in a smartwatch designed specifically to enhance that experience.

4. AR and MR Future Readiness

The watch may function as a bridge device in Meta’s long-term augmented and mixed reality ambitions.

If Meta successfully launches Malibu 2 in 2026, it could appeal to:

• Buyers interested in Meta smart glasses

• Early adopters of AI-powered devices

• AR and mixed reality enthusiasts

• Users seeking cross-device AI integration

However, users primarily looking for a reliable fitness tracker or a mature smartwatch ecosystem may still prefer established brands like Apple, Samsung, or Garmin.

Since this would effectively be Meta’s first commercial smartwatch attempt, buyers may approach it cautiously until real-world performance is proven.

The wearable market in 2026 will likely be even more AI-driven and ecosystem-focused. By that time:

• AI assistants will be more powerful

• AR glasses could gain mainstream traction

• Health tracking technology will be more advanced

If Meta times the launch correctly, Malibu 2 could become a central hub for wearable AI.

But if execution falls short, it risks becoming another cancelled experiment.

Meta’s new smartwatch plans are a sign that the company is serious about developing a connected wearable ecosystem. Meta is no longer competing on fitness tracking alone but is now focusing on AI integration and smart glasses compatibility.

If Malibu 2 does come out in 2026 as expected, it could change the way people interact with AI and AR not from their pocket, but from their wrist.

Until then, it is still a gamble. But this is one thing that is certain – Meta does not want to be left behind in the wearable AI race.

Stay tuned with AndroBranch for more Meta smartwatch launch updates, Meta AI innovations, and AR wearables.