Meta Platforms Inc. (META) has confirmed that it may use any image shared with Meta AI for training purposes, including those captured on Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. This revelation comes after Meta initially remained silent about whether it used photos and videos taken on the smart glasses for AI training.
According to TechCrunch, Meta policy communications manager Emil Vazquez stated, “In locations where multimodal AI is available (currently U.S. and Canada), images and videos shared with Meta AI may be used to improve it per our Privacy Policy.” This means users currently have no option to opt out of their images being used for AI training, except by refraining from using Meta’s multimodal AI features.
Meta’s privacy policies also disclose that it automatically retains transcriptions of voice conversations with Ray-Ban Meta to train future AI models. However, users can opt out of having their actual voice recordings used for this purpose by selecting their preference when first logging into the Ray-Ban Meta app.
This development has sparked concerns about privacy and data usage, particularly as Meta continues to make significant strides in AI and VR technology. Analysts predict that the company’s growth in these areas could push it towards an Apple-like valuation. However, the recent confirmation comes amidst ongoing controversies regarding Meta’s data practices.
Meta previously faced legal challenges for its use of facial recognition software, settling a case with the state of Texas for $1.4 billion. It has also been reported that Meta uses all publicly shared content on its social media platforms, like Instagram and Facebook, to train its Llama AI models. This practice drew criticism in Norway in June.
Despite the controversy, Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s CEO, has seen his wealth rise considerably this year, reaching $203 billion, making him the third wealthiest person in the world after Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. This surge in wealth coincides with Meta’s aggressive push into AI and VR technologies, which could potentially reshape the tech landscape in the years to come.
While Meta’s AI advancements hold promise for the future, the ethical implications of data usage remain a pressing concern. As Meta continues to invest heavily in these technologies, it will be crucial for the company to address these concerns and ensure that user privacy is adequately protected.
