Meta is expected to unveil a new pair of smart glasses without cameras at its annual Connect conference on Wednesday, as the company responds to growing concerns about privacy and covert recording associated with AI-powered wearable devices.
The social media company has emerged as an early leader in the smart-glasses market through its partnership with EssilorLuxottica, with sales of the glasses exceeding 7 million last year. The strong sales have given Meta a leading position in a market that includes Chinese competitors such as RayNeo and Xiaomi.
However, the popularity of Meta’s glasses has also increased scrutiny over their ability to capture images and video without the knowledge of people nearby. Several restaurants, pubs and theaters in the UK have restricted their use, reflecting concerns over privacy and recording in public spaces.
Meta is also facing a proposed class-action lawsuit in California alleging that it misled users about privacy protections and that human contractors reviewing material used to train its AI systems were exposed to footage showing people in private situations. Meta disputes the allegations and plans to defend itself.
The camera-free glasses are expected to come in two styles, Clubmaster and Burbank, according to The Information. The devices are expected to retain microphones and audio capabilities, allowing users to interact with Meta’s AI services without the need for a camera.
Meta is expected to introduce other wearable products at Connect, including an updated version of its camera-equipped Ray-Ban glasses. The company is also reportedly preparing a thinner and lighter pair of augmented-reality glasses, code-named Phoenix.
The announcements come shortly after Snap unveiled additional details about its $2,195 Specs augmented-reality glasses, which are scheduled to launch later this year. The competing products highlight intensifying efforts by technology companies to establish a market for AI-enabled eyewear as an alternative to conventional smartphones.
Removing the camera, however, may not eliminate privacy concerns. Analysts say microphones and audio recording could raise similar issues, although potentially to a lesser extent than cameras.
There is also a question over whether consumers will see enough value in camera-free glasses. Linda Sui, founder of market research firm Smart Analytics Global, said removing the camera from glasses without a heads-up display could make it harder for Meta to distinguish the product from Bluetooth earbuds, since the primary functions would revolve around voice interaction, microphones and speakers.
The potential launch therefore represents a shift in Meta’s wearable strategy, balancing the demand for hands-free AI features with growing concerns about how devices worn on people’s faces can affect privacy and consent.
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Emmanuel Abara Benson is a business journalist and editor covering artificial intelligence, global markets, and emerging technology.
He has previously worked with Business Insider Africa and Nairametrics, reporting on finance, startups, and innovation.
His work focuses on AI, digital economy, and global tech trends.
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