Meta Connect Spotlights Camera-Free Smart Glasses Amid Privacy Concerns

Meta Platforms opened its annual Connect conference on Wednesday, with the technology giant expected to introduce new smart glasses as it seeks to expand its lead in AI-powered wearable devices while addressing mounting privacy concerns.

Among the anticipated products are camera-free smart glasses in two styles, reportedly called Clubmaster and Burbank. The move could address criticism surrounding wearable devices capable of discreetly recording people without their consent.

Meta has emerged as an early leader in AI smart glasses. Sales of its glasses developed with EssilorLuxottica exceeded 7 million units last year, giving the company a strong position in a market that includes Chinese competitors such as Xiaomi and RayNeo.

However, rising adoption has fueled privacy debates. Several restaurants, pubs and theaters in the UK have restricted smart glasses because of concerns about covert recording. Meta also faces a proposed California class-action lawsuit alleging it misrepresented privacy protections and that human reviewers training its AI accessed uploaded footage containing private moments. Meta disputes the allegations and intends to defend itself.

Alongside the camera-free models, Meta is expected to introduce an updated version of its camera-equipped Ray-Ban smart glasses. Reports also suggest the company could reveal thinner, lighter augmented-reality glasses code-named Phoenix.

Competition in AR wearables is increasing. Snap recently announced partnerships and software updates for its $2,195 Specs augmented-reality glasses, which are scheduled to launch later this year.

Still, analysts question whether eliminating cameras will fully resolve privacy concerns because microphones can continue collecting audio. Linda Sui, founder of Smart Analytics Global, said audio recording could generate similar concerns, although potentially to a lesser degree.

Camera-free glasses could also face a product differentiation problem. Without cameras or a heads-up display, consumers may struggle to see their advantage over Bluetooth earbuds if the main features are limited to voice interaction, microphones and speakers.

Meta shares closed Wednesday at $744.27, up 1.04%, before slipping slightly in after-hours trading.