Meta’s Long-Awaited Thin and Light VR headset Spotted in Setup Video Ahead of Connect
In a major development that’s sending shockwaves through the VR community, a user setup video has surfaced showing off Meta’s highly anticipated thin and light VR headset. The device, reportedly codenamed “Phoenix,” is said to be officially unveiled at Meta’s annual Connect developer event on September 23-24.
The blurry images of Phoenix reveal a sleek, almost glasses-like design with independent lens spacing, removable nose clips for individual user comfort, and built-in hand and eye-tracking. But what’s most exciting about this device is its tethered compute puck, which offloads the bulk of the weight from the user’s head. This innovative approach could revolutionize the VR experience by making it more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
While Meta has been tight-lipped about Phoenix until now, these images and specs suggest that the company is finally poised to deliver a high-end productivity device that could compete with top-tier VR headsets on the market. As we’ve seen in previous reports, Meta’s strategy appears to be focused on offering two distinct products: a premium, professional-grade headset like Phoenix, and a lower-end console for consumers.
The price tag of Phoenix is still unknown, but it’s rumored to be under $1,000. Considering the recent component crisis and skyrocketing costs of RAM, storage, and Qualcomm chips, this may not be as affordable as some VR enthusiasts were hoping. However, Meta has shown an ability to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges.
In many ways, Phoenix represents a new chapter for Meta’s VR endeavors. The company’s previous attempts at high-end headsets have been met with lukewarm reception, but this time around, it seems like they’re taking a more thoughtful approach. By offering a slim, lightweight design and advanced features like eye-tracking, Meta may finally be on the cusp of delivering a truly exceptional VR experience.
But what does this mean for the future of VR? With Phoenix potentially setting the bar high for professional-grade headsets, we can expect other manufacturers to follow suit. The implications are significant: consumers will have more options than ever before when it comes to choosing their ideal VR device. And with Meta’s commitment to innovation and user comfort, we may be on the cusp of a new era in VR that prioritizes both productivity and accessibility.
As Connect approaches, VR enthusiasts can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. Will Phoenix live up to its promise? Can Meta finally deliver a high-end headset that sets the industry ablaze? We’ll have to wait until September to find out, but one thing’s for sure: this is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in VR history.
Source: Road to VR — 2026-07-29