Meta Smart Glasses App Reportedly Contains Hidden Facial Recognition Code
Meta is facing renewed privacy concerns after a report suggested that its smart glasses companion app may contain inactive facial recognition-related code.
According to the report, a feature reportedly referred to as “NameTag” was discovered within the app’s codebase. The feature is not currently active, but researchers say related elements have appeared in updates since early 2026.
The app is used to operate several Meta smart glasses products, including the Ray-Ban Meta series, which has seen tens of millions of installations globally.
How the feature could work
Researchers reviewing the code claim the system could potentially use the glasses’ built-in camera to detect faces and generate biometric identifiers. These identifiers could then be compared with locally stored data on a user’s device.
If a match is found, the system may notify the user with identification details.
However, the feature remains disabled and is not available to users.
Privacy concerns
The discovery has raised questions among privacy experts, as facial recognition technology continues to be a sensitive topic in consumer electronics.
Meta previously discontinued its facial recognition system on Facebook in 2021 following widespread criticism and regulatory pressure, including legal settlements related to biometric data usage.
Researchers’ findings
The report also suggests references to multiple AI models related to face detection and identification within the app’s code. Some experimental elements reportedly include potential user features aimed at helping users recognize people they have met.
Company response
A Meta spokesperson said the code reflects internal testing and experimentation and does not indicate any confirmed product plans.
The company stated that no decision has been made to launch such a feature and that it is not currently developing a centralized facial recognition database. It also emphasized that any future features would be introduced with transparency and appropriate safeguards.
Ongoing debate
The findings have renewed discussion around the use of wearable AI technology. While supporters highlight potential convenience and accessibility benefits, critics continue to raise concerns about privacy and surveillance risks.
