Meta Delays Mixed Reality Glasses to 2027

Meta has reportedly postponed the launch of its next‑generation mixed reality glasses, codenamed “Phoenix,” shifting the release window from late 2026 to the first half of 2027. The delay - confirmed in internal memos - is meant to give the team “breathing room” to polish hardware and deliver a more reliable user experience.

Why the Pushback?

According to sources, the move stems from supply‑chain challenges and the complexity of refining lightweight mixed‑reality hardware. The upcoming glasses - previously referred to as “Puffin” - reportedly weigh about 100 grams and use an external power puck to reduce heat and improve comfort.

Meta leaders reportedly told staff that rather than rushing to hit the 2026 target, the extra time is needed to ensure the device meets quality and performance expectations. One memo, seen by insiders, emphasized that “getting the details right” was more important than launching on schedule.

What This Means for Enterprise AR

This delay underscores how hard it remains to build AR hardware that’s light, comfortable, and robust enough for real‑world use. For enterprises which had pinned hopes on MR glasses for training, collaboration, and hybrid work, it signals that real adoption might take longer than expected. Until the hardware matures, many organizations may hold off investing in AR‑driven tools.

It also reflects the broader caution in the XR space: mixed‑reality isn’t just about flashy demos or marketing. It’s about ergonomic design, battery life, thermal management, and seamless integration. Meta’s recalibration shows that achieving all these at an affordable price is still a major challenge.

The Larger Picture

The postponement comes as part of a wider pullback: reports suggest Meta’s metaverse division may see budget reductions as it reorganizes priorities and re-evaluates the long‑term viability of AR/VR hardware in a competitive landscape.

The Takeaway

Meta’s decision to delay Phoenix until 2027 is a reminder that building mainstream‑ready mixed‑reality hardware remains a tough, complicated process. For anyone betting on AR for enterprise or creative workflows: patience might be the name of the game. When it arrives, the glasses may be better, but for now, timelines have been reset.