Meta's super-slim Phoenix VR headset revealed in fresh leak
What's the story
Meta's next-generation virtual reality (VR) headset, codenamed Phoenix, has been leaked through visuals. The images were discovered in a Horizon OS firmware package and reported by Uploadvr. They show off the glasses-like design of the device and its removable prescription lens inserts. The leak gives us an idea of how this device could look.
Design details
The headset sports a slim frame with separate nose pads
The leaked visuals show that Phoenix sports a slim frame with separate nose pads, unlike the face interface commonly seen in traditional VR headsets.
The sides and underside of the arms are also dotted with sensors.
This unique design is part of Meta's plan to create a premium, lightweight mixed-reality headset that could compete with its own high-end Quest Pro model but in a much slimmer avatar.
Setup insights
The device will rely on external computing puck for processing
The visuals also provide insight into how the prescription lens inserts could be added to the headset.
One animation shows these inserts being placed in front of the device's own lenses.
Another image shows a person holding a QR-code card in front of the device, indicating that this code might play a role during setup.
The headset is likely to rely on an external computing puck connected via cable for processing power.
Operational capabilities
It will use cameras to capture the real world
Despite its glasses-like look, Phoenix won't be expected to work like a pair of transparent smart glasses.
It will use cameras to capture the real world and display it on the headset's screens.
This means users will see a digital representation of their surroundings instead of looking through clear lenses.
The leak comes just ahead of Meta Connect 2026, which is set to take place on September 23-24 in Menlo Park, California.