Meta has officially adjusted the internal roadmap for its next major hardware release, the “Phoenix” mixed reality (MR) smart glasses. According to internal communications shared within Meta’s Reality Labs division, the device is now scheduled for a release in the first half of 2027, rather than the original target of late 2026. Meta executives have stated that this extra time is necessary to “get the details right,” particularly concerning the balance between high-end performance and a comfortable, wearable form factor.
The Phoenix glasses are expected to be a significant step up from the current Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. While the Ray-Ban models focus on audio and camera features without a display, Phoenix is designed to offer full mixed reality capabilities. To keep the frames lightweight—rumored to be around 110 grams—Meta is reportedly using an external “compute puck.” This small device, which would be carried in a pocket or clipped to a belt, handles the heavy processing tasks, allowing the glasses themselves to remain relatively slim compared to bulky headsets like the Apple Vision Pro.
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Software and hardware integration
Phoenix will likely run on Meta’s Horizon OS, the same operating system that powers the Quest line of virtual reality headsets. This integration would allow users to access a wide range of existing apps and mixed reality experiences in a more portable format. Reports suggest the glasses will be capable of projecting high-quality holographic avatars and digital interfaces directly onto the real world, a feature Mark Zuckerberg has previously described as a potential “iPhone moment” for the company.
The delay also allows Meta to further develop its “neural interface” technology. This involves a separate wristband that translates muscle movements into digital commands, allowing users to control the glasses with subtle hand gestures without needing to touch the frames or use external controllers. By pushing the launch to 2027, Meta aims to ensure that these complex interactions are polished and intuitive for early adopters.
Release and pricing information
While a specific release date has not been set, the current target for the Phoenix glasses is the first half of 2027. This timeline positions the device to launch nearly four years after the initial rumors of its development surfaced. In the meantime, Meta is expected to continue supporting its existing wearable lines, including new lens options and software updates for the Ray-Ban and Oakley smart glasses throughout 2026.
Pricing for the Phoenix glasses is expected to be in the premium category. Given the advanced MicroLED display technology and the included compute puck, industry analysts estimate the device could launch at a price point between $1,500 and $2,000. This would place it well above the $299 starting price of the Ray-Ban Meta glasses but significantly below the $3,499 cost of the Apple Vision Pro. Meta reportedly views this “Innovation” line as a product for tech enthusiasts and professionals before eventually moving toward more affordable consumer versions in the late 2020s.
