Meta is planning to release a new smartwatch, codenamed “Malibu 2,” potentially as early as this year, designed to function in tandem with its next-generation Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, according to reports. The device could include fitness tracking features comparable to those found in Apple Watches or Fitbits.
The smartwatch’s development stems from Meta CTO Andrew Bosworth’s vision for the company’s neural band technology, first introduced with the Ray-Ban Display glasses last fall. Bosworth indicated last year that the technology would eventually be more practical integrated into a watch form factor. The neural band uses skin-based electromyography to interpret motor neuron signals, translating them into interface gestures for controlling the glasses.
Currently, the neural band’s functionality is limited to controlling the Ray-Ban Display glasses. Meta has explored expanding its application, demonstrating a concept integration within a Garmin smart car cabin at CES in January. Combining the neural band and a smartwatch into a single device is seen as a logical next step.
Beyond gesture control, Meta is also considering equipping the smartwatch with additional capabilities, including fitness tracking. The company has already begun incorporating fitness features into its eyewear line, with the Oakley Vanguard sports glasses offering heart rate monitoring and compatibility with Garmin watches.
Garmin is considered a likely partner for the smartwatch development, given the existing collaboration on fitness features and the smart car demonstration. Of the major smartwatch manufacturers, Garmin presents a strong option outside of the dominant players – Apple, Google, and Samsung.
A smartwatch could also enhance the functionality of the Ray-Ban Display glasses, potentially serving as a viewfinder or control interface for the glasses’ camera. It could also provide a platform for onboard AI processing, either to support the glasses or to power AI-driven fitness functions.
Meta’s plans align with those of other tech giants. Apple is reportedly developing its own smart glasses and a potential accompanying pin for use with AirPods and Apple Watch. Google’s XR team has confirmed that its 2026 smart glasses will be compatible with Android watches.
Meta experienced technical difficulties during live demonstrations of its new smart glasses at the Meta Connect developer conference last September. During one demo, a cooking content creator’s Ray-Ban Meta glasses failed to respond to a recipe request, skipping ahead in the instructions. Another demonstration was hampered by the inability of the glasses to connect to a live WhatsApp video call between Bosworth and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Bosworth later addressed the issues in an Instagram Q&A, attributing the problems to unforeseen technical glitches.
Meta is expected to unveil its next generation of Ray-Ban Display glasses, along with the potential smartwatch, at its Connect developer conference in September. The company has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the new devices.
