Meta reaffirms multiple next-generation headsets hinting at Connect announcement
Meta Chief Technology Officer Andrew “Boz” Bosworth reaffirmed in a recent interview that the company is developing multiple next-generation virtual reality headsets ahead of its upcoming Meta Connect event. According to Bosworth, Meta continues to invest heavily in VR hardware despite recent restructuring, with two distinct devices—a gaming-focused headset and another model—confirmed on the near-term roadmap.
Bosworth confirmed that Meta has two distinct next-generation headsets on its near-term roadmap, describing them as a gaming-focused device and an ultralight mixed-reality system. He acknowledged internal leaks revealing these devices, stating, “I think it’s officially leaked we’ve got two devices on the roadmap that we’re super excited about coming out over the course of a period of time.” The memos indicate this device will not be subsidized, suggesting a higher retail price compared to Meta’s mainstream Quest lineup.
According to internal Meta memos cited in recent coverage, the gaming-focused headset is positioned as a substantial upgrade over the Quest 3, targeting enthusiast VR gamers and offering significant improvements in performance and features.
The ultralight mixed-reality headset is reported to incorporate a tethered compute puck designed to reduce the weight and bulk of the headset by offloading processing power. Sources confirmed that this device is aimed for a launch in the first half of 2027 and will support mixed-reality experiences by combining virtual reality with passthrough or see-through capabilities. This headset is described as separate from the gaming-focused model, underscoring Meta’s strategy to pursue multiple distinct product lines simultaneously.
Bosworth linked further details on these next-generation headsets to the upcoming Meta Connect event, scheduled for September 23–24, 2026, at Meta’s Menlo Park campus. He urged audiences to “stay tuned for Connect and we’ll have more to share then,” signaling that at least one of the new devices could be revealed during the company’s annual developer and product showcase. Meta Connect has historically served as the platform for major VR and AR hardware announcements, including the launch of Quest 3 and the second-generation Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg recently teased the 2026 event with a photo of smart glasses obscured by blue markings, suggesting additional wearable device announcements.
The reaffirmation of multiple next-generation headsets comes after Meta’s recent restructuring and cost-cutting efforts. Bosworth described the company as being in a “more sustainable shape” but emphasized that Meta continues to invest heavily in VR hardware. He highlighted a “profound” user interface update as evidence that Meta is actively evolving its VR platform rather than scaling back. This stance contrasts with speculation that Meta might be de-prioritizing VR after the organizational changes.
Meta’s approach to the gaming-focused headset, which will not be subsidized, indicates a shift toward more sustainable hardware economics. Analysts expect this device to carry a premium price, aligning it with high-end PC VR or enthusiast standalone headsets rather than entry-level products. The ultralight mixed-reality headset’s design, featuring a tethered compute puck, reflects efforts to address ergonomic challenges by reducing headset weight and bulk through off-headset processing.
The company’s internal documents and Bosworth’s comments together provide an unusually transparent look at Meta’s long-term hardware plans beyond Quest 3. They reveal a multi-tier strategy targeting both dedicated gaming users and those seeking lightweight mixed-reality experiences. This dual approach signals that Meta is preparing to expand its XR hardware portfolio with multiple next-generation devices.
Meta Connect 2026 is expected to focus on “the latest in VR, wearables, metaverse, and AI,” according to official statements. Previous Connect events have introduced key products such as the Meta Ray-Ban Display AR glasses and the Oakley Meta Vanguard sports glasses, establishing a precedent for unveiling next-generation XR hardware at this annual event. With Bosworth’s reaffirmation and the confirmed Connect schedule, industry observers anticipate that Meta will clarify its post-Quest 3 hardware direction and provide more specifics about its upcoming headsets during the September event.
