Meta Removes Facial Recognition Code from Ray-Ban Smart Glasses App
Meta has quietly deleted dormant facial recognition code, known internally as "Name Tag," from the companion app for its Ray-Ban smart glasses, as reported by WIRED on June 9, 2026. The code, which would have enabled wearers to identify people via biometric faceprints stored on users' phones, was discovered by WIRED during a review of the Meta AI app. The feature had drawn criticism from over 70 advocacy organizations over privacy and safety risks. Meta's VP of communications, Andy Stone, stated the feature was purely exploratory and that no final decision had been made. Meta declined to answer 10 questions from WIRED, including about the database of face profiles and data retention policies.
Key facts
- Meta removed dormant facial recognition code from the Ray-Ban smart glasses app.
- The code was internally called 'Name Tag'.
- WIRED reported the removal on June 9, 2026.
- The feature would have identified people via biometric faceprints stored on users' phones.
- Over 70 advocacy organizations urged Meta to abandon the technology.
- Andy Stone, Meta's VP of communications, said the feature was exploratory.
- Meta declined to answer 10 questions from WIRED.
- The code was discovered in the Meta AI app that handles smart glasses features.
Entities
Institutions
- Meta
- Ray-Ban
- The New York Times
- WIRED
- PetaPixel