Meta is facing renewed scrutiny over its smart glasses platform after reports emerged that references to facial recognition technology were discovered inside its companion app, only to disappear in a subsequent software update.

The issue centres on code reportedly linked to an internal project known as “NameTag”. While the feature was not active for consumers, its presence suggested Meta had explored ways of incorporating face identification capabilities into its smart glasses ecosystem.

According to reports, the dormant system appeared capable of converting facial data into digital identifiers that could potentially be matched with stored information. Although there is no evidence the technology was available to users, the discovery has reignited debate about privacy and transparency surrounding wearable devices equipped with cameras.

The findings are particularly significant because the code was reportedly found within the consumer-facing Meta AI application used by smart glasses owners, rather than in a separate experimental or developer platform.

A Ray-Ban Meta Glasses wearer talks to another person using live translation.

Privacy advocates have previously raised concerns about the prospect of facial recognition being integrated into wearable technology. Critics argue that such systems could identify individuals in public spaces without their knowledge or consent, creating broader surveillance concerns.

Following media attention, the facial recognition references were reportedly removed from the application. Meta communications executive Andy Stone said the technology had been part of an internal pilot program and that the company had not determined whether it would become a commercial feature.

The development also draws attention to Meta’s complicated history with facial recognition. In 2021, Facebook discontinued its facial recognition system and deleted biometric data associated with more than one billion users, citing evolving regulatory and privacy considerations.

While the latest discovery does not confirm that facial recognition is destined for Meta’s smart glasses, the appearance and subsequent removal of the code has intensified questions about the company’s future plans for wearable AI technology.