Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses will now store voice recordings by default, removing the ability for users to opt out of this data collection—just as the company gears up to launch its AI-powered glasses in India. According to a report by The Verge, Meta notified users of this privacy policy update via email ahead of the official release.
Previously, users could choose not to have their interactions with Meta AI recorded. Now, with the updated policy, voice recordings will automatically be saved when the glasses’ AI features are in use. If users want to delete any stored recordings, they must do so manually through the device settings.
“Meta AI with camera use is always on unless you turn off ‘Hey Meta,’” the company explained in the email. “By default, recordings of your voice are saved when using Meta AI and may be used to improve Meta’s AI and other products. You can no longer disable voice recording storage, but you can delete recordings anytime in Settings.” The update also activates the smart glasses’ camera by default. While photos and videos are stored locally on the device, any interaction with Meta AI or use of cloud features sends media to Meta’s servers, where it may be used to improve its services.
This means that content shared on Meta-owned platforms like Instagram or Facebook could be accessed for product development and AI training purposes.
Despite removing the opt-out feature, Meta emphasizes that users can still control their data—primarily by turning off the “Hey Meta” wake phrase. Doing so disables the hands-free AI features, restricting the glasses to basic audio and camera functions. First launched globally in September 2023, Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses allow users to take photos and videos, give voice commands, send messages, answer calls, play music, and access real-time translation in supported languages such as English, Spanish, French, and Italian.
