Meta's Bold Return: The 2026 Smartwatch Strategy to Challenge Apple and Huawei

Meta is stepping back into the wearable arena with a highly anticipated smartwatch set for 2026. After a four-year hiatus, the tech giant is refining its vision to compete in a market currently dominated by industry leaders. This move signals a significant shift in the company's hardware strategy, as it seeks to integrate its ecosystem directly onto the wrists of millions of users worldwide.

The Evolution of Meta’s Wearable Ambitions

Recent reports from "The Information" suggest that Meta is finally ready to revive its wearable plans. The company had previously attempted to enter the market in 2022, but those efforts were ultimately sidelined due to technical complications and high manufacturing costs. Now, with a renewed focus, Meta is evaluating cutting-edge health features and smarter AI capabilities to ensure its upcoming device stands out in a crowded field.

The new project, codenamed "Malibu 2," represents Meta's second chance at capturing the wrist-based hardware market. While specific hardware specifications remain under wraps, the timing of the launch is strategic. By targeting 2026, Meta aims to synchronize the release with its new-gen Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, potentially creating a seamless cross-device experience that leverages augmented reality and personal assistance.

This entry into the market will naturally intensify the rivalry between Meta and established giants like Apple and Huawei. Currently, the Huawei Watch GT 6 has set high standards for battery life and health monitoring, while Apple continues to lead in premium branding and ecosystem integration. Meta will need to offer something truly unique—likely driven by its massive social data and AI research—to carve out a significant market share.

Industry experts are particularly interested in how Meta will handle the challenges that defeated its 2022 prototype. If "Malibu 2" can deliver on the promise of long-lasting battery life and innovative health metrics, it could redefine what users expect from a non-Apple wearable. For those following the latest in tech, you can check out more about the Huawei Watch GT 6 or stay updated on Meta developments to see how this competition unfolds.

When is the expected release date for Meta's new smartwatch?

Meta is currently targeting a launch window in 2026. This follows a four-year period where the company's wearable projects were largely on hold.

What is the internal codename for the project?

The smartwatch is currently being developed under the internal codename "Malibu 2."

What happened to Meta's previous smartwatch project?

Meta originally planned to launch a wearable in 2022, but the project was canceled due to a combination of technical hurdles and concerns regarding the cost of production.

Which companies will be Meta's primary competitors?

Meta will be competing directly with Apple and Huawei, both of which currently dominate the global wearable market with advanced health features and premium hardware.

Will the smartwatch work with other Meta products?

It is highly likely that the smartwatch will be designed to work in tandem with Meta's upcoming Ray-Ban Display smart glasses and its broader AI ecosystem.

🔎 In conclusion, Meta's return to the smartwatch market in 2026 marks a pivotal moment for the company's hardware division. By learning from past failures and focusing on the integration of advanced AI and health tracking, Meta is positioning itself to be a formidable challenger to the current market leaders. Whether "Malibu 2" can successfully disrupt the dominance of Apple and Huawei remains to be seen, but the 2026 tech landscape is already looking much more competitive.