Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has reportedly delayed the release of its highly anticipated mixed-reality glasses — code-named “Phoenix” — shifting the launch from late 2026 to the first half of 2027.

This update underscores Meta’s decision to prioritize quality, reliability, and long-term viability over rushing to beat competitors into the market.

? What are the “Phoenix” Glasses?

  • The Phoenix device (formerly called “Puffin”) is described as a mixed-reality (MR) headset/glasses hybrid meant to bring together augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) features.

  • It reportedly weighs around 100 grams (≈ 3.5 ounces) — significantly lighter than many VR headsets.

  • Its design will be closer to a goggle- or glasses-style wearable, using a “puck”-like external module for power and processing—much like the set-up of Apple Vision Pro — in order to keep the main headset compact and comfortable.

  • However, earlier reporting suggests that the glasses may ship with somewhat lower-resolution displays and modest computing power, positioning them not as a premium, top-tier MR device, but more likely as a mainstream, accessible alternative.

Why the Delay? Meta Wants “Breathing Room”

Based on internal communications obtained by media:

  • Executives at Meta — including senior leads in its XR division Reality Labs — reportedly said the delay was necessary to “get the details right.”

  • The delay is not intended to add extra features or expand scope. Instead, Meta is focusing on ensuring the device is polished, stable, and sustainable before shipping.

  • In a memo to staff, Meta leadership emphasized the need for product maturity and user-ready quality, rather than rushing to meet a previous self-imposed timeline.

Business Context: Budget Cuts & Strategic Shift

  • The slowdown occurs amidst broader cost-cutting at Reality Labs — Meta’s XR and metaverse division. The division reportedly faces up to 30% budget reductions.

  • High-profile attempts at building a metaverse have proved costly: Reality Labs is said to have incurred tens of billions in losses since 2021.

  • The decision reflects a broader corporate shift for Meta: instead of chasing high-end, hardware-intensive VR, the company appears to be betting on lighter, more wearable AR/MR form-factors — perhaps seeing them as more practical, mainstream-friendly, and financially sustainable in the long run.

What This Means for the AR/VR Market & Consumers

  • More polished launch expected. With extra development time, Meta’s Phoenix glasses may offer better battery management, thermal performance, comfort, and usability than earlier rushed devices — which could help in mass adoption.

  • Accessible MR option ahead. Because Phoenix prioritizes lightness and practicality over top-tier power, it may reach a broader audience — those curious about AR/MR, but who found heavy VR headsets cumbersome.

  • Delayed timeframe — but realistic expectations. For users waiting since early leaks (and rumours dating years back), 2027 feels far away. But the delay could help avoid a scenario where an underwhelming product harms consumer trust in MR wearables.

  • Strategic pivot in XR investment. Meta’s shift suggests the company believes wearables + AR + AI + lighter form factors stand a better long-term chance than bulky “metaverse” headsets — potentially influencing other companies’ XR roadmaps.

 

Conclusion

Meta’s decision to delay the Phoenix mixed-reality glasses until 2027 — though disappointing to eager early adopters — may be a wise move. It reflects a growing recognition that quality, comfort, practicality, and sustainable design matter more than rushing to beat competitors. If Meta uses this extra time well, Phoenix could stand out as one of the first MR devices that’s truly wearable enough for everyday use.

Given the shifting dynamics at Reality Labs and evolving consumer demand, 2027 could mark a turning point — not just for Meta, but for the broader AR/VR industry too.