Meta appears to have inadvertently revealed details of its next mixed reality headset, internally codenamed “Project Phoenix,” prior to its official launch. The images were discovered by UploadVR within the “HorizonOS Prescription Lens” application, a tool Meta apparently deployed as a placeholder before ultimately removing it.
The leaked visuals depict a lightweight headset that diverges from the traditional Quest form factor, instead resembling glasses-style devices such as Xreal’s Aura. Notably, one image clearly displays a tethering cable, corroborating longstanding rumors that the device will connect via a separate processing puck rather than operating wirelessly.
While the photos provide side and interior views, they do not show the front of the headset. Industry analysts expect the front to feature camera arrays similar to competing glasses-like hardware, facilitating the controller-free hand-tracking interface Meta is developing. This aligns with the company’s announced Connect session titled “a practical guide to controller-free interaction.”
The leak occurs just days before Meta’s annual developer event begins on September 23. Although last year’s conference focused heavily on display-enabled smart glasses, the timing of these Horizon updates suggests Meta may be preparing to make a significant announcement regarding Phoenix. However, a physical demonstration of the device remains uncertain, as previous reports indicate the headset’s market release has been delayed until the first half of 2027.
Project Phoenix rising from the ashes of Quest 3, apparently. Hope the release date isn’t also on fire.
Does anyone know if the prescription lens app supports progressive lenses or just single vision?
Tethered means lower latency and higher fidelity. I’ll take a puck over wireless any day for serious development.
Another leak before the official reveal? Meta really needs to lock down their internal apps better than this.
Finally, a headset that looks less like a ski goggle. The glasses form factor is long overdue.