Meta adds LED-block detection to AI glasses amid privacy concerns

Meta said it will roll out a software update for its AI-enabled glasses that automatically stops recording if the LED light indicating a capture is obstructed. The change follows reports that some users were taping over the LED to hide when the device was recording. "No other kind of camera has done this and we’re proud to lead the industry effort," the company wrote in a blog post, adding that the safeguard was needed after discovering attempts to modify or destroy the capture LED.

The update arrives as Meta is testing additional AI-glass prototypes that could capture audio continuously and take photos at short intervals, according to sources. The company also announced that its AI models can now generate images using publicly posted Instagram photos unless users opt out, and that it may use images stored in users' device galleries for AI training.

Meta's privacy policy states that any content shared with its AI services may be used for model training, while the company maintains that only the user can view photos and videos taken with the glasses unless they choose to share them. The firm is facing multiple investigations and lawsuits related to alleged privacy violations involving its AI glasses and other AI training practices.