Meta Delays Launch of Mixed-Reality “Phoenix” Glasses to 2027

Meta has postponed the planned release of its new mixed reality glasses, code named “Phoenix,” pushing the debut from late 2026 to the first half of 2027.

The Internal Memo

Internal memos say the delay gives development teams more time to polish the device and ensure a high quality user experience. Reality Labs leaders reportedly told staff that the extra time is not for adding new features but for refining core performance and overall usability. According to media outlets that got their hands on the memo, the developers cite the delay as “going to give us a lot more breathing room to get the details right.”

The memo also says that CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Reality Labs (RL) leaders had a meeting in which Zuckerberg gave feedback on the mixed-reality plans for 2026, which he said “focused on making the business sustainable and taking extra time to deliver our experiences with higher quality.”

“Based on that, many teams in RL will need to adjust their plans and timelines,” he added. “Extending timelines is not an opportunity for us to add more features or take on additional work.”

Phoenix Glasses: What to Expect

The Phoenix glasses are expected to feature a goggle style design and rely on a separate power puck module for processing and power management. This approach aims to keep the headset lighter, improve comfort, and prevent overheating during extended use.

The delay comes as Meta makes wider adjustments within its Reality Labs division. It includes plans for a limited edition wearable called Malibu 2 in 2026 and a next generation Quest headset focused on high end immersive gaming. The company is also said to be scaling back some metaverse related spending while concentrating on more sustainable hardware development.

In October, Meta appointed Aul and Cairns to lead the revamped unit of metaverse.  Both Aul and Cairns previously oversaw  Meta Horizon products and other virtual reality hardware. The company is now weighing budget cuts of up to 30% within Reality Labs, a move that could affect employees working on its virtual spaces platform, Horizon Worlds.

Meta has not commented on the memo details yet.