Smart glasses are becoming a new focus area for tech companies but privacy remains one of the biggest concerns around these devices. Now, Mark zuckerberg-owned Meta is reportedly looking to launch a new pair of smart glasses without a camera after as its existing camera-equipped glasses face growing privacy concerns.
According to a Reuters report, the US-based tech giant is expected to showcase new smart glasses at its annual Connect event, including a camera-free model. The glasses are expected to come in two styles, reportedly called Clubmaster and Burbank.
Meta’s move comes at a time when its AI-powered smart glasses have become increasingly popular. The company, which developed the glasses with EssilorLuxottica, sold more than seven million units last year, according to Reuters.
However, their growing popularity has also raised concerns about people being recorded without their knowledge or consent.
Several restaurants, pubs and theatres in the UK and Europe have already restricted the use of such glasses. The devices have also faced legal scrutiny.
A proposed class-action lawsuit in California alleges that Zuckerberg-owned brand misled users about privacy protections and that reviewers could access and label footage uploaded to the company’s servers. Meta has disputed the allegations and said it will defend itself.
The camera-free glasses may help Meta address at least some of these concerns. However, removing the camera won’t solve the privacy problem. The glasses are still expected to have microphones that can be used for voice-based interactions with Meta AI.
Analysts cited by Reuters also believe that removing the camera could affect demand, as taking photos and recording videos are among the key features that have made Meta’s smart glasses popular.
The privacy debate around smart glasses is growing beyond Meta as well. Reuters recently reported that companies are exploring camera-free glasses and other AI wearables too.
The social media giant has not officially confirmed the camera-free smart glasses yet. More details are expected at the company’s Connect event.
