Meta’s Secret Project Phoenix Takes Shape as Leaked Images Reveal Slim, Glasses-Style Design
A major breakthrough has been made in the world of virtual reality, with the first official visuals of Meta’s next-generation headset, codenamed Project Phoenix, leaked out of its own software. The images, shared by VR researcher Luna on social media platform X, show a sleek and slim design that bears little resemblance to traditional VR headsets.
According to Luna, who has been following Phoenix for most of the year, the device is designed to be used seated, without controllers, using eye tracking and hand tracking in a gaze-and-pinch scheme similar to Apple’s Vision Pro. This approach suggests that Meta is serious about creating a more comfortable and accessible VR experience, one that can be easily integrated into daily life.
The images reveal a number of key features, including sensors on the sides and undersides of the temples, as well as a cable running out of the left temple to a separate compute puck. This design decision suggests that Meta is moving away from traditional headset designs, instead opting for a more compact and lightweight approach. The fact that the battery and processor have been moved into a separate puck that clips to the wearer’s waistband also implies a shift towards greater comfort and convenience.
Luna notes that Phoenix is Meta’s premium, ultralight headset, and it is designed to be a successor to the Quest Pro. With a field of view narrower than traditional headsets, at roughly 88 to 91 degrees diagonally, this new design may appeal to those who value portability and comfort above all else.
The Wall Street Journal has reported that the price target for Phoenix is under $1,000, which would make it an attractive option for consumers looking for a high-end VR experience without breaking the bank. However, with Meta’s recent struggles in the VR space, including the shutdown of Horizon Workrooms and the delay of Phoenix’s launch until 2027, one can’t help but wonder what this means for the future of the metaverse.
Meta’s decision to prioritize comfort and accessibility may be a savvy move, but it also raises questions about the company’s commitment to the VR market. As a major player in the industry, Meta’s success or failure will have far-reaching implications for the future of virtual reality. One thing is certain, however: with Project Phoenix, Meta is taking a bold step towards creating a more immersive and user-friendly VR experience that could revolutionize the way we interact with technology.
As Meta prepares to unveil its latest innovations at its Connect 2026 conference next month, VR fans will be eagerly awaiting news of Phoenix’s release. With developer sessions focused on building for both Meta VR and AI glasses, as well as controller-free interaction, it seems clear that Meta is serious about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in virtual reality.
Source: Hypergrid Business — 2026-09-12