META LEAKS SLIM 'PROJECT PHOENIX' HEADSET AHEAD OF CONNECT

UploadVR published images of Meta's unreleased headset found within the HorizonOS Prescription Lens firmware package. The design suggests Meta is developing a device to compete directly with mixed reality glasses from Xreal and Viture—companies producing wearables that bridge the gap between lightweight smart eyewear and bulkier full VR headsets. Project Phoenix appears to adopt a form factor somewhere between Meta's Ray-Ban AI smart glasses and traditional VR headsets like the Quest line. This positioning targets users seeking augmented or mixed reality capabilities without the bulk of conventional virtual reality equipment. The leaked images come at a strategic moment. Meta's annual Connect conference begins September 23rd, where the company typically unveils new hardware and software announcements. The timing suggests Project Phoenix may be officially announced at the event, though Meta has not confirmed the device's existence or launch plans. The mixed reality glasses market has expanded recently. Xreal and Viture have gained traction with consumers seeking practical AR/MR experiences for daily use, rather than immersive VR for gaming and entertainment. Meta's entry into this category indicates the tech giant views slimmer form factors as essential to mainstream adoption. Details about Project Phoenix's specifications, pricing, or availability remain unknown. The firmware discovery provides only visual design information, leaving questions about processing power, display technology, and software features unanswered. Meta faces increasing competition in spatial computing from Apple, which launched the Vision Pro earlier this year. A sleeker, more affordable alternative could help Meta capture different market segments and reinforce its position in the emerging mixed reality space. The company has not officially responded to the leaked images as of publication.