Reports suggest that Meta might delay the launch of an upcoming XR headset that connects to a portable compute puck. On the other hand, the company promises that its next-generation Quest will be a significant improvement over the current model. The Latest News The device, codenamed 'Phoenix', was initially planned for release in the second half of 2026. It was rumored to feature a goggle-like design with the compute and battery functions offloaded to a puck-like unit tethered to the headset. However, internal memos obtained by Business Insider reveal that the release of Phoenix has been postponed to the first half of 2027. Maher Saba, VP of Reality Labs Foundation, announced this decision in an internal memo released on December 4th, citing a meeting with Reality Labs leaders and CEO Mark Zuckerberg as the reason for the delay. Successive XR prototypes | Image courtesy Meta Saba emphasized the importance of delivering high-quality experiences and ensuring the sustainability of the business. He mentioned that teams in Reality Labs would need to adjust their plans and timelines accordingly, with no room for additional features or work. Another memo from metaverse leaders Gabriel Aul and Ryan Cairns explained that the delay was necessary to refine the details and ensure a polished and reliable user experience. In addition to Phoenix, Meta is working on the next-generation Quest, which will focus on immersive gaming and offer a significant upgrade in capabilities while improving unit economics. According to Business Insider, Meta is also planning to release a new "limited edition" XR device in 2026, codenamed 'Malibu 2', although details about this device are scarce. My Perspective Speculating about the next Quest's features is challenging as Meta explores various prototypes to determine the best fit for the market. The Quest 3S could potentially target the lower end of the market with a price point around $300, maintaining its position for the foreseeable future. Meta's next major headset release, excluding the limited edition, may cater to the high-end segment with a price range of $800 to $1,000. This move could attract hardcore Quest users looking to upgrade and potentially compete with other established brands in the market. While there is uncertainty about Meta's manufacturing progress based on recent supply chain leaks, it is expected that more information will surface in the coming months. Regardless, I am keeping a close watch on developments in the VR industry.
