Why It Matters
The lawsuit raises significant questions about consumer privacy and data security in the rapidly expanding market for wearable artificial intelligence technology.
What Happened
A proposed class-action lawsuit filed in federal court in Northern California accuses Meta of capturing intimate images through its smart glasses without user consent. The complaint alleges that footage was transmitted to contractors in Kenya, who reviewed and labeled the content to train Meta’s AI systems.
The amended filing, submitted in late August, claims users were unaware their devices were recording sensitive moments. Plaintiffs allege the glasses captured video of undressing, bathroom use, sexual activity, and password entry. Some users reported that the cameras activated without their knowledge or intent.
User PL18 alleges that family members were recorded bathing after the device was placed on a bathroom counter. Another user, Steven Beltran, claims the gadget falsely activated twice daily. User PL01 in Los Angeles stated he used the AI assistant during an intimate moment in his bedroom.
The lawsuit cites a February investigation by Swedish newspapers Svenska Dagbladet and Göteborgs-Posten. That report involved interviews with more than 30 employees at subcontractor Sama and former Meta staff. Workers in Kenya reported that faces sometimes appeared in footage even when they were supposed to be blurred.
Tina Wolfson, an attorney for the plaintiffs, stated the case centers on surveillance without consent and exploitation of image and likeness. She argued that buyers thought they were purchasing cool gadgets but did not realize video was sent to train Meta’s AI every time they activated the feature.
Meta disagrees with the allegations and intends to fight them. A company spokesperson said data is reviewed to improve products and steps are taken to filter identifying information. Meta states it includes privacy protections, such as a light signaling recording status.
By the Numbers
More than 70 — Number of people who sued Meta
230-page — Length of the lawsuit filed in federal court
More than 30 — Number of employees at Sama and former Meta employees interviewed
Twice a day — Frequency Steven Beltran alleges false activation occurred
Zoom Out
The legal action follows a broader pattern of scrutiny regarding biometric data collection by major technology firms. Companies including Disney and Apple have faced lawsuits alleging illegal biometric data practices.
Meta markets its smart glasses for audio, calls, video capture, and AI interaction. The company has partnered with celebrities, including Kylie Jenner, to advertise the eyewear. Meta’s website states that images used by the AI assistant are not saved to the user’s photo gallery and that faces and license plates are blurred.
The lawsuit alleges data transmission occurs via “Hey Meta” activation or accidental adjustment. It seeks to block Meta from deploying biometric tools through its glasses. The complaint accuses the company of fraud, false advertising, and violating consumer protection laws.
What’s Next
Meta has explored a feature called “NameTag” for identifying others, which CTO Andrew Bosworth discussed on a podcast in July. The federal court will now review the amended complaint to determine if it meets the requirements for class-action certification.