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Meta Connect 2026 Preview: Camera-less smart glasses 'Luna' and mixed reality headset 'Phoenix' expected
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The annual Meta Connect 2026 conference, scheduled for September 23-24, is expected to showcase major updates across AI, hardware, and the metaverse. Key anticipated announcements include more details on the recently launched Muse AI agent, a potential new version of the flagship Llama large language model, and the integration of Muse with Meta's smart glasses. On the hardware front, Meta is reportedly planning to unveil a camera-less smart glasses model, codenamed 'Luna', which relies on six microphones for AI interactions, possibly addressing privacy concerns over covert recording. Additionally, the company may officially announce the 'Phoenix' mixed reality headset, a more portable device using an external computing module, alongside updates to the HorizonOS operating system. The article notes that while no major game releases are expected due to recent VR studio closures, Meta may promote entertainment content like a 3D horror series based on 'Talk to Me'.
Source report
September 23, 2026 — The annual technology event Meta Connect 2026 kicks off on September 23–24, marking a key moment in Meta’s product and AI roadmap.
Like Google I/O and Apple’s fall launch events, Meta Connect serves as the company’s primary stage for unveiling next-generation hardware, artificial intelligence advancements, and its evolving metaverse ecosystem.
The main keynote is scheduled for Day One:
- Pacific Time: September 23, 4:00 PM
- Eastern Time: September 23, 7:00 PM
- Beijing Time: September 24, 7:00 AM
Once a single social media platform, Meta has grown into a multi-sector technology giant, advancing in virtual reality headsets, large language models, and now AI agents with the launch of Muse AI.
Here’s what to expect at Meta Connect 2026.
Muse, Llama, and AI Ecosystem Updates
While hardware is expected to take center stage, AI software and ecosystem updates remain a core focus — especially following the recent launch of Meta’s AI agent, Muse.
- Muse updates: Meta is expected to share more details about Muse, including its integration with wearable devices. The company previously hinted that Muse would “soon” support smart glasses, and the conference may reveal how this will work.
- Llama model upgrade: Meta’s flagship large language model has not been updated since April 2025. A new version is widely anticipated.
- Smart glasses ecosystem: Meta may announce new third-party apps for its smart glasses. At last year’s Connect, Meta revealed several upcoming apps, but progress has been limited. Earlier this year, Meta opened access for developers to build apps for its Ray-Ban display glasses. Even without hardware updates, showcasing new compatible apps could boost consumer interest.
New Camera-Free Smart Glasses (“Luna”)
One of the most notable hardware updates may be a camera-free smart glasses model, reportedly codenamed “Luna.”
Instead of a camera, the device will rely on a six-microphone array to power AI features. Users will still be able to ask questions to Meta AI or give commands to Muse AI — but without visual input from a camera.
Why remove the camera?
Meta’s current smart glasses all include built-in cameras. The shift is likely not about creating a budget option, but rather addressing growing public discomfort with being recorded in public.
- Many people are uneasy about the potential for covert filming.
- Underground hackers have found ways to disable the recording indicator light on Meta’s camera-equipped glasses, making it harder for others to know they are being recorded.
Meta has already patched the vulnerability that allowed hackers to bypass the recording light. The introduction of a camera-free model could be another step in addressing these privacy concerns.
“Phoenix” Mixed Reality Glasses?
Meta may also officially unveil its long-rumored “Phoenix” mixed reality glasses.
The term “glasses” is used loosely — the device is reportedly closer to a headset than Meta’s current smart glasses. It is expected to feature a goggle-like design, or what some describe as “bulky glasses.”
Still, the Phoenix device is expected to be more portable and lightweight than Meta’s previous VR headset, the Quest.
Key features (rumored):
- An external computing module to handle complex processing, reducing headset weight.
- Compatibility with HorizonOS, the same operating system used in Quest headsets.
If realized, users could enjoy high-quality mixed reality without wearing a bulky headset.
Metaverse Avatars and HorizonOS Updates
With new headset hardware likely comes an update to HorizonOS.
- A new version of the operating system may be announced, aimed at improving usability.
- Meta has recently shut down several VR studios, so major game launches for Phoenix are unlikely. However, Meta may focus on entertainment content — including a new 3D horror series based on the film Talk to Me, designed for viewing on its headsets.
- Meta’s CTO may appear as a virtual avatar during the keynote, continuing the company’s evolving metaverse vision.
This article is based on reporting by Cailianshe, edited for clarity and structure.
Source
财联社Neutral / independent