Meta explores glasses that could record audio continuously
The prototype eyewear would feed Meta AI with frequent snapshots and audio, the Financial Times reported.
By Hana Yoshida · Markets Reporter
3 min read
Meta is developing prototype smart glasses designed to keep track of a wearer’s surroundings through constant audio capture and frequent photos, according to the Financial Times. The project would push AI eyewear further into public spaces, where cameras, microphones and bystander consent are already drawing scrutiny.
The Financial Times reported that the glasses are being tested under a “super sensing” concept. The device could record sound continuously and take pictures every few seconds, giving Meta AI material the wearer could later ask about.
Under one system being considered, the raw photos and audio would not be saved by Meta or shown directly to the person wearing the glasses, the Financial Times reported. Instead, information extracted from those images and recordings would be sent to Meta’s servers so the company’s AI could search or answer questions about it.
Supporters of that design argue it would reduce privacy risks because the underlying images and sound would not be retained, according to the Financial Times. Even so, the approach would still depend on eyewear collecting data from people and places around the user in the background.
Privacy light questions
The report comes as Meta faces attention over how its camera-equipped glasses signal recording. The Verge reported that Meta said Tuesday it is sending an update that will shut off the camera when the glasses detect tampering with the LED indicator.
That indicator is meant to show when the glasses are recording. The Verge has reported that some modders offer paid services to remove the recording light from Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, a practice that undercuts the main visible cue for people nearby.
For the prototype “super sensing” mode, Meta is currently planning to keep the LED indicator off, the Financial Times reported. That would make the feature different from standard camera use, where a visible light is intended to alert others that recording is happening.
Broader scrutiny
Meta’s work on AI glasses has already raised questions beyond recording lights. The Verge has reported on concerns tied to facial recognition features for the company’s smart glasses, and Wired found references to a facial recognition system in Meta’s smart glasses app, according to The Verge.
CNN has also reported on cases of users filming women while wearing smart glasses, according to The Verge. Those reports have added to worries about how discreet eyewear cameras can be used in social settings.
The Financial Times did not report that Meta has announced a consumer product using the “super sensing” system. For now, the glasses remain prototypes, but the reported work shows how Meta is considering AI features that rely on constant environmental awareness rather than short, user-triggered recordings.
This story draws on original reporting from The Verge.