Meta updates smart glasses software to prevent secret recording

Meta is rolling out a software update for its smart glasses designed to prevent users from secretly recording others. The update addresses a loophole where users could start recording and then cover the device's indicator light, which is meant to signal that recording is in progress.

Alex Himel, Meta's Vice President of AR, explained on Threads that the camera is designed not to record if the LED light is blocked. However, some users attempted to circumvent this. The new fix will automatically stop the camera if the light is covered during recording. Meta has faced scrutiny over its smart glasses being used for unauthorized recording and harassment.

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A fix for this is starting to roll out – the camera will now stop working if the light is covered during a recording.

The company has previously stated that the camera would be disabled if the recording indicator light was tampered with. Despite these measures, Meta acknowledges that some users employ tactics to record secretly, and inexpensive accessories exist to bypass the indicator light. Himel indicated that Meta is continuously developing additional security features to ensure the recording indicator light reliably notifies people nearby.

"Only a tiny minority of people try to get around these protections, and the fact they have to go to these lengths shows our efforts are working," Himel stated, emphasizing that the company is committed to addressing privacy concerns associated with its smart glasses technology.

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Only a tiny minority of people try to get around these protections, and the fact they have to go to these lengths shows our efforts are working.