Meta launches camera-free AI glasses amid privacy pushback

Meta has introduced a new line of AI-powered smart glasses, including a camera-free version with audio capabilities, amid growing privacy concerns. At the company's annual Connect conference in Menlo Park, CEO Mark Zuckerberg showcased the audio-only glasses, highlighting the importance of privacy features like a recording indicator light.

The audio glasses will complement a range of new smart glasses models that still offer video recording. Meta, which launched its first smart glasses in 2021, has been working on more advanced versions, including display glasses that project images onto the lens and lightweight mixed reality glasses powered by an external battery and memory pack.

The company's proprietary AI assistant, Muse, can perform tasks on behalf of users, such as making calls and booking appointments. Meta is also partnering with various brands like Walmart, Best Buy, Gap, and Sephora for the Muse app. However, the company is facing scrutiny over privacy and child safety issues, including a recent US$18 billion settlement with US states over alleged violations of consumer protection and children's online privacy laws.