Meta's Smart Glasses Face Privacy Backlash
Meta recently introduced three new smart sunglasses (two models starting at €309, older Ray‑Ban/Oakley‑branded models started at €419) positioned for everyday video capture and real‑time translation. Privacy concerns persist after reporting that video recordings may be viewed by data workers — including a Meta contractor in Kenya — for AI training, and stories of covert recordings and misuse have dented creator enthusiasm. Engadget interviewed creators who now avoid using the glasses publicly. Meta says it sold more than seven million smart glasses in 2025 and has announced a mandatory software update to disable the camera if the recording LED is physically tampered with, plus threatened legal action against services that promote manipulation. Meta’s FAQ says teams are working to make the devices more secure, but concrete privacy improvements remain vague.
- •Meta unveiled three new smart sunglasses; two models are available starting at €309.
- •Previous Ray‑Ban/Oakley‑branded smart glasses started at €419.
- •Reports indicate video recordings from the glasses can be reviewed by data workers (including at a Meta contractor in Kenya) for AI training.