Facebook Considers Facial Recognition for 2021 Smart Glasses Despite $650 Million Privacy Penalty
Summary
Facebook evaluates adding facial recognition to its 2021 smart glasses launch despite facing a massive $650 million privacy penalty from Illinois for collecting biometric data without user consent, as executives weigh controversial applications like identifying people at social events against potential stalking risks.
Key Points
- Facebook is evaluating whether to include facial recognition technology in its upcoming smart glasses product set to launch in 2021, with VP Andrew Bosworth discussing legal and privacy implications during an internal company meeting
- The company faces significant legal obstacles including Illinois' Biometric Information Privacy Act, which previously cost Facebook $650 million in penalties for its photo-tagging feature that collected biometric data without consent
- Facebook executives acknowledge the controversial nature of facial recognition technology while exploring potential use cases like helping users identify people at social gatherings, though concerns about stalking and real-world harm remain prominent