**Meta’s Upcoming Smartwatch: A Companion to Smart Glasses**
A recent article suggests that Meta is planning to introduce a smartwatch later this year, though it is not expected to directly rival the Apple Watch. Instead, this device may act as an accessory to Meta’s forthcoming smart glasses.
The notion of a Meta smartwatch was initially alluded to in 2021 via a leaked image discovered in the Ray-Ban Stories app. While early plans encountered delays and were allegedly shelved, later reports have indicated that the initiative has been revitalized, with a possible launch imminent.
As per a paywalled article from *The Information*, Meta aims for a release towards the end of this year. The smartwatch is anticipated to enhance the functionality of the company’s upcoming smart glasses, which may include a display. CNET speculates that the watch will mainly operate as a supplementary device, improving the features of the smart glasses.
Meta’s Chief Technology Officer, Andrew Bosworth, has previously noted that the neural band introduced with the Ray-Ban Display glasses could ultimately sync with a smartwatch. This aligns with the vision of a neural-enhanced watch launching alongside the next-gen Ray-Ban Display glasses, especially as rivals like Apple and Google prepare to penetrate similar markets.
From a strategic perspective, it seems that Meta is prioritizing smart glasses as its main conduit for delivering AI functionalities. The incorporation of a fitness tracker within an accompanying neural band appears to be a sensible development.
Although the Meta smartwatch may not significantly threaten the Apple Watch, the competitive environment could change dramatically with the eventual introduction of Apple Glasses. As the wearable technology market keeps evolving, the interaction between these devices will be vital in influencing consumer choices and technological progress.