Now that folks have caught on to the whole ‘AI’ buzzword oversaturation thing, tech companies are shifting direction. AI wearables are the ‘new’ vision — literally, in the case of Meta, Google, and even Apple — whether they are a pair of smart glasses, a pendant, or earbuds. Meta’s the biggest proponent of the first, having sold more than seven million pairs of smart specs in 2025 alone. Now, it wants to slap some of that tech onto your wrist.
It’s a bit Meta, isn’t it?
That’s according to a report from The Information (via CNET), which claims that the company formerly known as Facebook had revived its smartwatch project known internally as ‘Malibu 2′. It’ll supposedly pack the health features typically associated with any ol’ smartwatch. It’s also got the company’s AI assistant loaded up, which is the main reason anyone would get a watch from Meta, rather than travelling the more traditional avenues.
Meta initially began toying with the idea of a smartwatch many moons ago, before ultimately shelving the project back in 2022. At one stage, it reportedly featured an onboard camera and three variations to choose from. It’s unclear whether Malibu 2 (2.0) will do something similar or go in a different direction.
Read More: Meta’s latest AI scheme wants to keep your accounts alive (even if you aren’t)
Assuming it is meant to be paired up with Meta’s smartglasses, its smartwatch ambitions may end up ditching the camera. The couple would rely on the shooter embedded in the glasses, while the watch could potentially act as a simple controller. Even if the smartglasses connection doesn’t interest buyers, the onboard AI could serve as a simple health-focused assistant when paired with the fitness trackers on offer.
We may even see the new smartwatch debut alongside Meta’s next pair of specs as soon as this year. September is the likeliest bet, considering Meta’s Connect developer conference will be held then. Either way, it could be some time before SA gets a turn. Last month, Meta confirmed it had paused the international expansion of its Ray-Ban glasses due to short supply.
