Key Takeaways
1. Meta has been developing a smartwatch for over four years, facing multiple setbacks but may unveil it in September.
2. The company has partnered with Huaqin, a Chinese ODM, to help bring the smartwatch to market.
3. The smartwatch is expected to be showcased at the Meta Connect event on September 17th, focusing on AI and wearable technologies.
4. Key features may include cameras, health tracking, fitness functionalities, and messaging options, but it will not use Wear OS.
5. Meta is also developing a gesture-controlled wristband using sEMG technology, though its inclusion in the smartwatch is uncertain.
Meta, the company formerly known as Facebook, has been working on a smartwatch for over four years now. The journey has not been smooth, with the project facing numerous setbacks, including multiple cancellations and restarts. Nonetheless, it appears that this time the smartwatch may actually launch, with a possible unveiling in September if everything goes as planned.
Development Partners
Currently, the name of the Meta smartwatch remains a mystery. However, a report from DigiTimes Asia indicates that progress is being made. It mentions that Meta has teamed up with Huaqin, a Chinese original design manufacturer (ODM) that has previously collaborated with brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Huawei on smartwatches and smartphones. This partnership is seen as a positive step towards bringing the Meta smartwatch to market.
Upcoming Event
Regarding the timeline for the reveal, the report states that it could be shown off during the Meta Connect event in September. This two-day event is set to take place from the 17th and will highlight the newest advances in AI, wearables, metaverse technologies, and much more.
Features and Tech
Details about the Meta smartwatch are still quite limited. It is expected to feature a couple of cameras, health tracking and fitness functionalities, along with messaging options. Rumors suggest that it will not operate on Wear OS, but instead will utilize a customized version of Android. Furthermore, Meta is also developing a wristband or bracelet that would let users control a computer through gestures. This device employs surface electromyography (sEMG), which interprets electrical signals from muscle movements to recognize intended actions.
At this stage, it’s not clear how far along the development of this wristband is, making it difficult to determine if it will be showcased at the Meta Connect event. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether this technology will be included in the Meta smartwatch, though it seems rather improbable.
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