Key Takeaway: Meta’s forthcoming smartwatch, set for reveal at Meta Connect 2025, emphasizes AI-powered camera features and integration with its AR/VR ecosystem, diverging from conventional fitness-focused wearables. While innovative, it sacrifices advanced health tracking and extended battery life.
Camera-Centric AI Capabilities
Meta’s smartwatch, codenamed “Milan,” integrates a dual-camera system with a 5 MP front-facing sensor for video calls and a 10 MP rear sensor for environmental analysis. These cameras enable real-time object recognition, gesture control, and augmented reality (AR) overlays, positioning the device as a pioneer in wrist-based computer vision. “The cameras are the cornerstone, allowing the watch to interact with the world in ways traditional smartwatches can’t,” said tech analyst Sarah Lin of TechInsights.
The device leverages onboard AI to process visual data, offering features like instant translations and contextual shopping links without relying on a smartphone. This aligns with Meta’s broader push into spatial computing.
Seamless AR/VR Integration
Designed as a companion to Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses and Quest headsets, the smartwatch serves as a secondary interface, displaying notifications and controlling AR settings. It supports hand-tracking and spatial mapping, enhancing user interaction across Meta’s wearable portfolio. “This watch is less about standalone functionality and more about being a hub for Meta’s ecosystem,” noted AR expert Raj Patel.
The device runs on a custom Android-based operating system, distinct from Google’s Wear OS, to optimize integration with Meta’s messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram, as well as its Metaverse services.
Premium Design and Build
Meta has partnered with Huaqin Technology to ensure a high-quality build. Prototypes feature a curved glass display and a detachable stainless-steel case, blending functionality with a premium aesthetic. “The design feels like a statement—Meta wants this to compete with luxury wearables,” said industry observer Emily Chen.
The smartwatch is expected to debut at Meta Connect, scheduled for September 17–18, 2025, with availability likely to follow shortly after.
What to Expect
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cameras | 5 MP front, 10 MP rear for video and environmental analysis |
| AI Functions | Gesture recognition, object identification, AR overlays |
| Operating System | Custom Android fork, optimized for Meta services |
| Ecosystem Role | Companion to Ray-Ban Meta glasses and Quest headsets |
| Build Quality | Curved glass, stainless-steel case via Huaqin Technology |
| Announcement | Meta Connect, September 17–18, 2025 |
Limitations to Anticipate
Minimal Health and Fitness Tracking
Unlike competitors such as the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch, Meta’s smartwatch prioritizes AI over health features. Basic step counting and heart-rate monitoring may be included, but advanced metrics like blood oxygen levels or ECG are absent. “Meta is clearly betting on AI and AR over fitness, which could limit its appeal to health-conscious users,” said wearable tech analyst Mark Rivera.
Short Battery Life
With an estimated 18-hour battery life, the watch falls short of multi-day endurance offered by rivals. The power-intensive dual cameras and AI processing necessitate nightly charging, a potential drawback for users seeking longevity.
Limited App Ecosystem
The custom Android OS may restrict third-party app support compared to Wear OS or watchOS. Developers will need to adapt apps specifically for Meta’s platform, which could slow ecosystem growth. “A limited app store at launch could be a hurdle,” warned software developer Anika Bose.
No Advanced Gesture Controls
While Meta has explored electromyography (EMG) for neural-based gesture input, hardware constraints have delayed its inclusion. The 2025 model is unlikely to feature robust EMG controls, relying instead on camera-based gestures.
Pricing Uncertainty
Meta has not confirmed pricing, but analysts estimate a starting price above $300, reflecting its premium positioning. Distribution details remain unclear, with direct online sales and select retail partnerships expected.
Market Implications
Meta’s smartwatch introduces a novel approach, focusing on camera-driven AI and AR/VR synergy rather than competing directly with fitness-focused wearables. Its success hinges on consumer interest in wrist-based AR and Meta’s ability to deliver a cohesive ecosystem. “This is a bold pivot, but it risks alienating users who expect comprehensive health tracking,” said Chen.
As Meta prepares for its September 2025 reveal, the smartwatch represents a strategic step toward integrating AI and AR into everyday wearables, potentially redefining user expectations in the process.
Gangtokian Web Team, 29/07/2025