Meta reportedly developing AI pendant for workplace and consumer use

At a glance:

• Meta is developing an AI-powered pendant based on technology from its recent Limitless acquisition
• The company plans to expand its AI glasses lineup and launch a business subscription called Wearables for Work
• Reality Labs division lost $4 billion in Q1 2025, prompting renewed hardware focus

Meta appears to be doubling down on AI hardware with plans for a new wearable device that could mark its entry into the personal AI assistant market. According to internal documents viewed by The Information, the social media giant is developing an AI-powered pendant that it intends to begin testing within the next year. This move represents Meta's latest attempt to establish a foothold in the hardware space, particularly in devices that integrate artificial intelligence directly into everyday accessories.

The pendant project builds on Meta's acquisition of Limitless, an AI device startup that it purchased at the end of 2025. Limitless had previously developed its own AI pendant that users could attach to their shirts or wear as necklaces to record conversations. When announcing the acquisition, Meta stated it would "accelerate our work to build AI-enabled wearables," suggesting the company recognized early on that wearable AI devices would become strategically important for its future roadmap.

Meta's renewed interest in AI wearables comes after previous attempts in this category largely failed to resonate with consumers. Earlier devices faced challenges ranging from privacy concerns to tone-deaf marketing approaches, and many simply didn't offer compelling functionality. However, the landscape may be shifting as companies like OpenAI continue investing in similar technologies, indicating that major players believe the market is worth pursuing despite past setbacks.

Beyond the pendant, Meta is reportedly planning to expand its existing lineup of AI glasses while simultaneously preparing a business-focused subscription service called Wearables for Work. This dual-track approach suggests the company is targeting both consumer and enterprise markets with its upcoming hardware offerings. The business subscription model could provide recurring revenue streams that might help justify the substantial investments required for hardware development and manufacturing.

These hardware initiatives appear designed to address ongoing financial pressures within Meta's Reality Labs division, which reported a $4 billion loss in the first quarter of 2025. The division has historically struggled with profitability despite significant investment in virtual and augmented reality technologies. By expanding into more accessible AI wearables, Meta may be seeking to diversify its hardware portfolio and find more immediate commercial success.

The timing of these developments coincides with increased competition in the AI assistant hardware space, as major technology companies recognize the potential for always-available AI companions. While specific technical details about Meta's pendant remain unclear, the company's scale and existing AI research capabilities position it to make meaningful entries into this emerging market segment.

TechCrunch has reached out to Meta for official comment on these reported developments, though the company has not yet provided public confirmation of the pendant project or its broader wearable hardware strategy.