Meta Platforms is reportedly reviving its camera-equipped smartwatch, signaling a bold return to the wearable technology arena. Initially shelved in 2022 due to technical complications, the Meta Smartwatch project is once again underway, and this time, it’s rumored to launch as early as September 2025. Designed to complement the much-anticipated Meta AI Glasses, this new wearable could redefine the boundaries between AI, hardware, and real-time user interaction.
While enthusiasm surrounds the upcoming release, ambiguity persists. Conflicting reports suggest that while a launch during the Meta Connect Conference is likely, there’s no official confirmation. Let’s dive deep into every detail currently available on Meta’s re-emerging smartwatch, from features and production to its controversial development history.
Production and Launch Timeline: All Eyes on Meta Connect 2025
According to insider sources, Meta plans to unveil the smartwatch during its annual Meta Connect event, scheduled for September 17-18, 2025, in the United States. This aligns with Meta’s strategy to integrate its AI ecosystem across devices, with the smartwatch acting as a natural companion to its upcoming Meta AI Glasses.
Made in China by Huaqin Technology
Huaqin Technology, a well-established Chinese manufacturer, is reportedly the primary production partner for this device. Known for its high-quality consumer electronics, Huaqin’s involvement signals Meta’s commitment to scalability, rapid prototyping, and mass production. Manufacturing in China also hints at Meta’s strategy to reduce costs while maintaining global supply chain efficiency.
However, despite the strong indicators of a September launch, the same report casts doubt on the certainty of this timeline. The lack of final confirmation about its showcase at Meta Connect adds a layer of uncertainty to the smartwatch’s future.
Unique Selling Point: A Built-In Camera for AI-Driven Experiences
AI Meets Wearable Tech
The standout feature of the new Meta Smartwatch is its integrated camera, a bold move that positions it apart from existing offerings like the Apple Watch Series 9 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 6. This camera isn’t just for vanity photos — it’s expected to power AI functionalities such as:
Real-time visual recognition
Gesture detection
Context-aware AI commands
Augmented reality enhancements
Strategic Hardware Design
According to early design leaks, the Meta Smartwatch will have:
A curved-edge display
The camera embedded beneath the screen
A physical control button on the right-hand side
This sleek, futuristic design suggests Meta is aiming for style and substance, appealing to both tech enthusiasts and lifestyle-conscious users. The strategic camera placement beneath the display allows the device to remain visually seamless while unlocking next-gen features.
The Contradiction: Is the Launch Still Up in the Air?
Despite growing excitement, the report outlining the Meta Smartwatch relaunch contains a notable contradiction. It initially claims the smartwatch will be introduced during Meta Connect but later backtracks, suggesting that no final decision has been made.
This mixed messaging highlights the volatile nature of hardware development at Meta. Given the history of shelving this project in 2022, it remains possible that internal testing or executive-level decisions could delay—or entirely halt—the launch.
Flashback: Why Was the First Meta Smartwatch Canceled in 2022?
Meta originally began work on the smartwatch project in 2021, envisioning it as a central device in its AR/VR ecosystem. However, by June 2022, the program was quietly discontinued.
The primary issue revolved around the inclusion of two built-in cameras, particularly the secondary sensor. This component interfered with a novel bio-signal detection feature meant to interpret vein signals in the wrist and convert them into digital commands.
This innovative concept was groundbreaking but proved technically challenging. Engineers reportedly faced problems integrating both cameras without compromising functionality or power efficiency, ultimately leading to the project’s suspension.
Meta’s Broader Vision: Smartwatch + Meta AI Glasses
An AI-Powered Duo
If launched successfully, the Meta Smartwatch is expected to serve as a companion to the Meta AI Glasses, creating a synergistic wearable ecosystem. The integration of a camera could allow the watch to:
Stream visual data directly to AI systems
Support cooperative real-time processing with the glasses
Enable touchless control interfaces via gesture recognition
This pairing could redefine how we interact with technology in AR environments, pushing Meta’s ambition of a fully immersive, AI-enhanced metaverse one step closer to reality.
What This Means for the Wearable Market
Should Meta proceed with the launch, the device could disrupt the smartwatch industry, which has been dominated by Apple and Samsung for years. Unlike these companies, Meta is positioning its smartwatch as a computationally intelligent assistant rather than just a fitness or communication tool.
With the potential for real-time AI, camera-based contextual learning, and gesture-based inputs, the Meta Smartwatch could mark a paradigm shift in how wearable devices are perceived and used.
Expected Specifications and Features (Leaked and Anticipated)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Display | Curved edge OLED |
| Camera | Front-facing, under-display sensor |
| Processor | Custom Meta-designed chip for AI processing |
| Operating System | Likely custom OS based on Android or Meta’s platform |
| Physical Controls | Right-side physical button |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, possibly LTE |
| AI Integration | Visual processing, object detection, gesture control |
| Health Tracking | Standard sensors (heart rate, motion, etc.) expected |
Meta Smartwatch: A Leap or a Limbo?
In summary, Meta’s re-entry into the smartwatch space is both bold and complex. On one hand, its unique features—particularly the in-display camera and AI-based gesture recognition—could revolutionize the wearable category. On the other, the conflicting reports and past project failure cast a long shadow.
Until Meta officially confirms the launch at Meta Connect 2025, speculation will continue to swirl. However, one thing is certain: if and when this smartwatch is released, it has the potential to redefine the relationship between human and machine in everyday life.
We will continue monitoring updates as they unfold. For now, the world watches closely to see if Meta can finally deliver the smartwatch of the future.
