Meta smart glasses facial recognition plan revealed
The Meta smart glasses facial recognition feature may launch this year. The company plans to add it to its AI-powered eyewear. According to reports, Meta is developing a feature called “Name Tag.” It would allow wearers to identify people through an AI assistant. As a result, users could receive information about someone in real time. Meta previously shut down facial recognition on Facebook in 2021. At that time, leaders cited privacy and legal risks. However, the company has revived the idea for its smart glasses. Meta builds the glasses with EssilorLuxottica, the owner of Ray-Ban. The partner company said it sold over seven million pairs last year. Therefore, demand for wearable AI appears strong. CEO Mark Zuckerberg reportedly wants the feature to stand out in a growing market. Competitors like OpenAI are also exploring wearable AI devices.
Privacy concerns return to the spotlight
However, critics warn about serious risks. Civil liberty groups argue that facial recognition threatens public anonymity. For example, misuse could allow tracking without consent American Civil Liberties Union has raised alarms about abuse. Lawmakers have also questioned government use of similar tools. In addition, some cities have restricted police use of this technology.
Meta says it will limit who can be identified. The company may restrict recognition to public profiles or known contacts. Still, concerns remain about accuracy and consent.
The company has faced privacy penalties before. It paid billions to settle cases with the Federal Trade Commission over past data practices. Despite criticism, Meta continues developing advanced AI wearables. Clearly, the debate over innovation and privacy is far from over.
