A recent report from The Information suggests that Meta has begun outsourcing some design work for future headsets as part of a strategy to move some production away from China. However, Andrew Bosworth, Meta’s CTO, has countered these claims, asserting that the design of headsets will remain an internal affair.
The Information, in a report available through SeekingAlpha, indicates that Meta plans to relocate half of its Quest headset production from China to Vietnam. This move is reportedly a proactive measure to avoid hefty import tariffs set to be introduced by US President-elect Donald Trump.
In addition, the report mentions that Meta might be shifting more component design responsibilities, including lenses and displays, over to Goertek. This Chinese firm is known for its expertise in creating reference designs and manufacturing devices across the XR industry.
There are also suggestions that Meta is working with Goertek and other manufacturers to take on more headset development by 2030, as the company aims to concentrate on its profitable software business. The proposed collaboration would have Goertek designing options based on Meta’s goals, which Meta would then review and select.
On the other hand, Andrew Bosworth refuted these design claims in a recent post on X, saying, “Someone is pushing this design rumor hard, but it’s not true. We will continue designing our headsets internally. The partnership with manufacturers will stay as it has been, without any substantial changes.”
In another post, Bosworth emphasized that their relationship with Goertek is consistent. “To clarify, Goertek remains a valued partner. As our technology matures, it’s normal for them to manage designs across headsets, but this is not a deviation from our usual operations, even as we expand.”
According to The Information, which cites a Meta employee, Goertek has been tasked with designing the exterior for new versions of Meta’s MR headsets. They are also reportedly becoming more involved in the R&D of other Meta products, like the Ray-Ban smart glasses.
Earlier this year, Goertek committed $280 million to its Vietnamese subsidiary. As per a Shenzhen Stock Exchange filing, this branch focuses on manufacturing consumer electronics like headphones, smartwatches, and both VR and AR devices.
