Meta appears to have unintentionally shown off its upcoming mixed reality headset, known as "Project Phoenix," ahead of schedule. Images of the device surfaced from an app called "Horizon OS Prescription Lens," which was released and then removed by Meta. The images were originally published by Upload VR.

The app seems intended for prescription inserts, but included image files showing the headset from different angles. The images match previous rumors about the device, which is a different form factor than other Quest-branded hardware. It looks more similar to glasses-like devices like Xreal's Aura headset. One image shows a cable, aligning with rumors that Phoenix will rely on a tethered connection to a separate puck.

We still can't see the front of the headset, but it's likely to include a camera setup for hand-tracking controls rather than a dedicated controller. Meta is planning a session at Connect covering "a practical guide to controller-free interaction," which fits with what we've seen. Meta didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

It now seems possible we could get our first official glimpse of Phoenix at Meta's annual developer event, which kicks off September 23. Previous reports suggest the device won't be ready until the first half of 2027, but Meta could still tease it at Connect.