Meta says it met Hong Kong privacy watchdog over AI-enabled glasses concerns

Meta Platforms has confirmed it held discussions with Hong Kong's privacy watchdog about concerns related to its AI-enabled smart glasses, as the company prepares to launch the devices in the city amid heightened international scrutiny. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) had warned that the glasses could enable covert recording, gather excessive personal data, and process sensitive information via AI.

Philip Chua, Meta's public policy director for Asia-Pacific, assured that the company would continue to collaborate with the PCPD to address any concerns they might have. The smart glasses, which include a blinking white LED light to signal when photos or videos are being captured, officially went on sale in Hong Kong last month, following their initial release in 2021 with the Ray-Ban Stories model.

Chua highlighted safety measures such as automatically blurring faces, license plates, and other identifying details when users engage AI features. Meta also consulted safety experts and women's safety organizations during the development of these safeguards. The PCPD's guidance emphasizes the importance of adhering to the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance and respecting others' privacy, discouraging recording in sensitive locations and obtaining consent before photographing individuals.

Internationally, Meta has faced criticism for potential privacy breaches, including concerns over overseas contractors reviewing sensitive footage captured through its glasses and the need for clearer recording indicators. Meta plans to provide Cantonese support for its AI features in Hong Kong, potentially within the next year.