Meta Glasses Face Privacy Backlash Amid Plans for Always-On Recording

Meta is reportedly developing 'super sensing' smart glasses that could continuously record audio and capture photos 'every few seconds,' according to the Financial Times, as reported by The Verge and Gizmodo. The idea is to create an always-on AI assistant that can retrieve information from the day, such as where the user left their keys. However, this comes amid a growing backlash against existing Ray-Ban Meta glasses, with users reporting they now fear being labeled 'creeps' when wearing them in public.

Privacy concerns intensify

Concerns over the current glasses have escalated after reports of men using them to film women without consent and of Meta contractors reviewing intimate images. Engadget spoke to five creators who have stopped or reduced usage. One creator, Danielle, said she hasn't used hers since learning of the contractor reviews, calling them 'a fancy paperweight.' Others like Martino Wong now fold their glasses and hang them on their shirt to signal they are not recording. The backlash has been particularly notable on social media, with 'Meta Glasses' trending on Threads.

Meta's response and future plans

Meta has acknowledged the concerns, announcing an update that disables the camera if the LED recording indicator is tampered with. However, for the proposed 'super sensing' glasses, the LED would remain off during AI feature use, according to the FT. Meta spokesperson Dave Arnold said the company is 'committed to getting our glasses right.' The always-on concept raises significant privacy issues, especially given Meta's history with data handling and facial recognition. Gizmodo notes that always-on recording would also pose technical challenges, such as battery drain.