Meta has updated the privacy features of its artificial intelligence-powered smart glasses to prevent users from recording video while the device's recording indicator is covered. The company announced the change following reports that the glasses were being used to film individuals without their consent. The smart glasses feature a built-in LED light that is designed to signal to bystanders when a photo or video is being captured.
The update follows a report by CBS News in August involving a woman who found video of herself on social media that had been recorded by a man wearing the glasses. The woman stated she was unaware she was being filmed and had not given permission. Additionally, a test conducted by CBS News producer Anna Schecter found that an earlier version of the safety mechanism failed to stop recording if the LED light was covered after the filming had already started.
According to Meta, the glasses will now automatically deactivate the camera if the system detects that the LED light has been physically tampered with or covered during recording. Previously, the light had to be blocked before filming began to interfere with the camera function. Meta also stated it has removed harassing posts and online instructions for bypassing the safety light, and has blocked search terms such as "pickup artist" and "rizz" that were associated with violating content.
The change impacts social interactions in public spaces. Bystanders will see a visible LED signal whenever the camera is active, providing a notification that they are being recorded. This is intended to address the concerns of individuals who, like the woman featured in the August report, found themselves being filmed unknowingly in public. For content creators, the move necessitates keeping the device's frame clear of obstructions to ensure uninterrupted filming, while those who used the device for "pickup artist" or "prank" content will find certain search terms blocked and specific hashtags restricted on Meta-owned social media platforms.
Meta stated it has already observed a deterrent effect, noting that some companies offering tampering services have closed following the update. Alex Himel, vice president of wearables at Meta, said the company will continue to roll out updates to ensure the capture LED reliably alerts bystanders. The company has also launched an education and awareness campaign to inform the public about the purpose of the indicator light. Meta has not reported a specific date for when all existing devices will receive the firmware update.