Meta Platforms appears to be reviving its canceled smartwatch project, this time with integrated cameras and AI functionality, set to debut around its Meta Connect conference on September 17–18, 2025
The plans reportedly involve a partnership with Chinese manufacturer Huaqin Technology and positioning the device as a companion to Meta AI smart glasses, such as Ray‑Ban Meta
What We Know About Meta’s New Smartwatch
📦 Project Origins & Patents
Originally codenamed “Milan”, Meta first explored this smartwatch in 2021, featuring a curved display, front‑facing camera, physical button, and later a dual‑camera setup with 5 MP and 10–12 MP sensors
Development was shelved in mid‑2022 due to hardware issues, cost pressures, and integration challenges with Meta’s electromyography (EMG) neural input system
🌟 AI & Camera Innovation
The revived version is expected to deeply integrate camera capabilities with AI functions, enabling environment-aware interaction and visual intelligence—much like Meta’s vision for its AR ecosystem
🔗 Ecosystem Role
Rather than competing directly with Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch, Meta’s wearable may serve as an extension of its smart glasses and VR devices, enhancing augmented reality experiences and spatial awareness on the wrist
Why Meta Is Betting on a Camera‑Equipped Smartwatch
Meta aims to position itself as an AI-first hardware innovator. The camera-equipped smartwatch would stand out in a landscape where most major smartwatches lack camera sensors entirely The Verge
With prior patents filed for detachable camera modules and biometric sensors, Meta’s approach appears focused on modular hardware and hands‑free control aligned with its AR ambitions
What Challenges May Remain?
- Hardware integration: Earlier versions struggled to balance camera placement with EMG sensing functions
- Privacy concerns: Adding cameras to wearables raises surveillance and data protection worries, especially given Meta’s history with privacy scrutiny
- Market reception: The device must convince consumers to adopt a wrist accessory focused on camera interaction rather than health or fitness features.
Looking Ahead to September 2025
Meta has reportedly planned to unveil the smartwatch at Meta Connect 2025, held from September 17–18 in the US
The device is expected to retail for around $349, echoing earlier Milan projections, though official pricing remains unconfirmed
Final Thoughts
Meta’s revived smartwatch with camera signals a bold step for wearable tech. Beyond fitness tracking, the watch could become a powerful AI‑assisted interface—bridging wrist and spatial computing through smart glasses. If successful, it could redefine wristwear in the era of immersive AI and AR experiences.
