Lorde and a growing coalition of critics are challenging the normalization of AI-powered smart glasses, citing concerns over privacy, consent, and the ethics of surveillance technology. The backlash follows a high-profile collaboration between Kylie Jenner and Meta, which has reignited debates regarding the social implications of wearable cameras in public spaces.
Lorde’s Stance Against Smart Eyewear
During her set at the Mad Cool Festival in Madrid, Lorde publicly criticized the adoption of wearable AI technology. Addressing the audience, the singer characterized the devices as detrimental to the perception of reality. “Increasingly, in our world, it gets harder and harder to know what is real,” she said. “Can I just say, for the record, f— the glasses. Don’t get the glasses. Not sexy.” Her comments reflect a broader skepticism toward tech products that integrate constant, hands-free recording into everyday fashion.
The Controversy Surrounding the Meta and Kylie Jenner Collaboration
Kylie Jenner has faced significant online criticism for her partnership with Meta to market a new line of smart glasses. The collection features integrated cameras and an AI assistant designed to mimic Jenner’s voice. While Jenner promoted the launch on social media, describing it as a “tech moment,” the response in her comments section highlighted deep-seated anxieties about privacy. Users frequently compared the product to Black Mirror, citing the potential for individuals to record others in public without their consent.
Privacy Concerns and the Ethics of Surveillance
Farrah Khan, a consent educator and gender justice advocate, argues that the marketing of these devices ignores the reality of harassment. According to Khan, surveillance technology disproportionately affects women, who are already frequent targets of stalking and unwanted recording. “Tech companies are profiting off of surveillance and harm and then are saying, ‘Well, it’s up to the user,'” Khan said. She maintains that corporations must be held accountable for the societal impact of the tools they release.
Critics have also drawn a sharp contrast between Jenner’s current marketing efforts and her public accounts of being harassed by paparazzi as a teenager. On the Therapuss podcast in May, Jenner described the trauma of being swarmed by photographers while underage, noting that the experience made it difficult for her to leave her home. Observers argue that promoting wearable cameras—which enable anyone to act as a surreptitious photographer—is at odds with her stated history of being a victim of unauthorized surveillance.
Meta’s Response and Industry Pressure
Meta has defended the safety features of its hardware, emphasizing that its glasses have included a capture indicator since the product line’s inception. In a statement to CBC News, the company noted that mobile phones and action cameras lack similar persistent visual indicators for recording.
However, the broader tech industry is facing increased scrutiny regarding AI ethics. Meta recently backtracked on a feature that would have allowed users of its apps to create AI content using other user’s public accounts. The move followed pressure from Hollywood unions and agencies, including SAG-AFTRA and the CAA. The CAA stated that no individual’s likeness or creative work should be utilized by third-party AI models without “clear, documented consent.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Meta smart glasses record without warning?
Meta states that a “capture LED” light on the front of the glasses blinks whenever the camera is actively recording, intended to alert those in the vicinity.
Why are critics concerned about AI glasses?
Critics like Farrah Khan argue that wearable cameras increase the risk of non-consensual recording, stalking, and harassment, particularly targeting women.
Have tech companies changed features due to public pressure?
Yes. Recently, Meta removed a feature that would have allowed users to create AI content using other user’s public accounts following feedback from labor unions and creative agencies.
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