Meta is playing hardball with users who tamper with its Ray-Ban smart glasses, preparing an update that will brick the camera if its privacy LED is disabled. The update targets a growing trend of users physically modifying the glasses to hide the recording indicator.

This crackdown comes amid widespread public backlash and privacy concerns swirling around the devices. Reports have emerged of users drilling into the LED light to surreptitiously record video, completely undermining the built-in safeguards.

An Un-Hackable Fix?

Meta's new update will render the camera non-functional if it senses the privacy LED has been destroyed or obstructed, a significant escalation from the company's prior efforts.

The second-generation glasses already featured a software prompt warning users if the recording light was blocked by tape. However, modification communities quickly developed and shared workarounds, nullifying the measure.

Mounting Backlash and Public Bans

The software fix arrives as Meta faces mounting criticism over its wearable technology. The controversy is fueled by reports of bad actors using the devices to harass people.

Public anxiety is also growing over the potential for future features like facial recognition.

These fears have prompted some institutions to take action. This month, New York State is set to ban camera-enabled glasses from all its courtrooms.

This follows similar restrictions enacted by Philadelphia courts. Cruise lines have also joined in, prohibiting the use of the devices in common areas.

This update represents Meta's attempt to self-regulate its products to prevent further bans and rebuild public trust in its expanding wearables lineup.