Meta Revives Smartwatch Project with New Manufacturer and Possible Camera Features: Report

Highlights

• Meta has restarted its smartwatch development, partnering with Chinese ODM Huaqin.
• The wearable may feature built-in cameras and AI capabilities, possibly complementing Meta’s upcoming smart glasses.
• The device could debut at Meta Connect (Sept 17–18), though reports remain unclear about its official launch timeline.

Caption – Reports suggest we might get a Meta smartwatch soon. (Image credit – 9to5Mac)

Some readers who follow the tech rumour mill closely would remember that there were several reports a few years ago suggesting Meta was working on a smartwatch. However, the project was reportedly shelved sometime around 2022. Now, a fresh report indicates that Meta is back in the game and may soon launch its own smartwatch. Here’s what we know so far.

Meta’s Smartwatch Plans Are Back on Track

According to a DigiTimes report via @Jukalosreve on X (formerly Twitter), Meta has secured a new manufacturing partner for its upcoming smartwatch.

Exclusive: Meta turns to China for a second shot at smartwatches – Digitimes

Meta Platforms Inc. is reportedly reviving its smartwatch project, potentially with a camera lens, timed with its Meta Connect conference on September 17-18 in the US. The smartwatch is expected to… pic.twitter.com/hT2W2hYwPM

— Jukan (@Jukanlosreve) July 28, 2025

As per the report, Meta is pushing forward with the development of its first smartwatch. The company has chosen Chinese firm Huaqin as its primary manufacturing partner. Huaqin is helping Meta revive the project, which is rumoured to include a built-in camera, something earlier leaks had also pointed to. The wearable is also expected to complement Meta’s upcoming AI-powered glasses.

Meta will be hosting its annual Meta Connect conference on September 17–18 in the US and it’s possible the company might introduce the smartwatch at the event. That said, the DigiTimes report isn’t entirely clear on the timing.

While the introduction suggests Meta may unveil the smartwatch at Meta Connect, it later clarifies, “It’s unclear if the smartwatch will debut at the upcoming Meta Connect event.”

A Smartwatch with Cameras and AI Capabilities?

Huaqin, Meta’s new manufacturing partner, is among the world’s leading Original Design Manufacturers (ODMs). According to its official website, the company has experience producing smartwatches and smart bands. It has previously worked with major brands like Samsung, Huawei and Xiaomi, which suggests Meta is teaming up with a proven player in the wearables space.

Leaks about Meta’s earlier prototype codenamed Milan revealed a design similar to the Fitbit Versa. That prototype featured two cameras, one on the front and one on the back of the watch body.

Interestingly, the watch case could be detached from the strap, making it easier to use the rear camera. This design hints that Meta could be planning to bring camera-equipped smartwatches to market.

A built-in camera could not only set Meta’s smartwatch apart from competitors like Apple, Samsung, and Garmin but also enable advanced AI features. While details about the smartwatch remain scarce, more information is likely to surface as we get closer to a potential September launch.

FAQs

Q1. Who is Meta’s new manufacturing partner for its upcoming smartwatch?

Answer. Meta has chosen Chinese firm Huaqin as its primary manufacturing partner for the smartwatch project.

Q2. What features are expected in Meta’s smartwatch?

Answer. The wearable is rumoured to include a built-in camera and is expected to complement Meta’s upcoming AI-powered glasses.

Q3. When might Meta unveil its smartwatch?

Answer. Meta will host its annual Meta Connect conference on September 17–18, and it’s possible the company might introduce the smartwatch at the event. However, the report clarifies, “It’s unclear if the smartwatch will debut at the upcoming Meta Connect event.”

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