Meta Glasses Accused of Recording Users in Sleep Mode, Sparking Privacy Concerns

Users of Meta's smart glasses are reporting instances where the devices appear to be recording audio and even generating text transcripts of conversations, even when the glasses are supposedly in sleep mode or not intentionally activated. Multiple accounts on Reddit describe the smart glasses capturing audio without the "Hey Meta" wake command being used, with the notification light activating and recordings appearing in the AI's conversation history.

One user claimed to have experienced this issue across three different pairs of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, including second and third-generation models, following a recent firmware update. This user expressed concern that the Meta AI was activating without their input and reported seeing the white notification light turn on while speaking normally. They are considering a class-action lawsuit if the problem is found to be widespread.

Another owner stated that resetting the glasses did not resolve the issue, and they observed the internal LED activating randomly without any user command. A third user echoed these sentiments, noting that the glasses' internal light would activate without voice command, suggesting "something weird is going on."

Meta has responded to these claims, stating that the issue has been resolved. A company spokesperson told The Post, "People can manage, review and delete voice logs of their interactions with Meta AI via settings at any time."

This is not the first time Meta's smart glasses have faced scrutiny over privacy concerns. Previously, nightclubs and some government entities have banned the devices due to fears that owners might use them for unauthorized surveillance. A promoter in Brooklyn described the glasses as "pervert glasses" due to their covert nature, particularly in settings where individuals may not want to be observed or recorded.

Meta has implemented safeguards, such as software designed to stop recording if the indicator light is obscured. However, some experts argue that these measures may not be sufficient to address the potential for misuse. AI specialist Dr. Roman Yampolskiy has suggested that more robust measures, including tamper-resistant recording lights and automatic face blurring, along with meaningful penalties for abuse, are necessary to deter potential misuse of such technology.