Concerns over privacy violations using smart glasses have led to the development of a new app designed to detect nearby devices capable of recording. The application, named Zuckoff, was created by software developer Pawel Szydlowski in response to fears that individuals are being secretly filmed in public spaces.
The app functions by scanning for Bluetooth signals emitted by smart glasses. Szydlowski identified specific Bluetooth 'fingerprints,' including universally unique identifiers (UUIDs) and manufacturer identifiers, that are broadcast by various smart glasses, such as those from Meta and Snap.
"If the unique identifier matches, and also if the manufacturer identifier matches, then we have like an ultimate combo there," Szydlowski explained about the app's detection method. The app targets a range of devices, including Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta glasses, Snap Spectacles, and headsets like the Quest and Vision Pro.
Zuckoff has reportedly garnered 5,000 users since its launch on Apple's App Store last month. A paid version, Zuckoff Pro, offers notifications when recording-capable smart glasses are in proximity, even when the app is not actively open. This premium version is available as a one-time purchase for $24.99 or through a yearly subscription of $9.99, with the first year offered free.
The development of Zuckoff comes amid increasing scrutiny of how smart glasses are used. Reports have highlighted instances where individuals were filmed without their knowledge. In one case, Australian tourist Sally Contarino was secretly recorded by a man wearing Meta smart glasses outside a Las Vegas convenience store. The footage became significant days later when Contarino disappeared during her trip, with the recording representing one of the last known videos of her.
In another incident, a 21-year-old shop assistant, identified as Dilara, was unknowingly filmed by a man wearing Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses while on her lunch break. The video was later posted to TikTok, where it gained over 1.3 million views. Dilara reported that her phone number was visible in the video, leading to a barrage of unwanted texts and calls.
Szydlowski stated that his motivation stemmed from observing videos of people using smart glasses to record and identify unsuspecting individuals, often without blurring their faces. He believes that society has a right to know when they are being recorded.
He suggested that manufacturers of smart glasses could adopt a system similar to that developed by Apple and Google for Bluetooth trackers like AirTags. This industry standard allows iPhones and Android devices to alert users when an unknown tracker is traveling with them. "If they really care about that part not being abused, they would go that way," Szydlowski commented, referring to smart-glasses makers.
Meta has faced criticism regarding the privacy implications of its smart glasses. The company recently disabled thousands of devices after discovering that the built-in LED lights, intended to indicate recording, had been tampered with. Despite these concerns, Meta executives have maintained that the glasses are designed for visibility and safety, with Chief Technology Officer Andrew Bosworth stating, "We designed this camera to be noticed by the people around you."