In recent years, the concept of wearable technology has captured the imagination of the public. From fitness trackers to smartwatches, these devices have become a ubiquitous part of our lives. However, a new era of wearables is upon us, as people now embrace video-recording face computers. And this time, it’s not Google leading the charge, but Meta. Introducing Meta’s Glassholes, a revolutionary headset that allows users to seamlessly interact with the real world without ever taking off the device.
Meta’s latest offering, the Quest 3 headset, has garnered significant attention since its release. Users have started sharing videos of themselves performing everyday tasks while wearing the headset. While it may be impressive to defeat video game baddies, it is even more remarkable that the Quest 3 enables wearers to cook meals, clean their homes, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee on a beautiful day, all while wearing the device. The full-color, low-latency passthrough video feature of the Quest 3 truly elevates the possibilities of wearable technology.
With the advent of this new technology, people have inevitably begun pushing the limits, both technologically and socially. Some daring individuals have taken to wearing the Quest 3 in public spaces, recording their interactions with strangers. Jay Mayo, for example, boldly walked the floor of the New York Comic-Con, capturing candid moments with fellow attendees. Meanwhile, Kukurio59 filmed themselves waiting for an elevator, a notoriously awkward situation in itself. They also documented various other scenarios, both public and private, showcasing the device’s capabilities.
One particularly audacious incident involved XR and AI booster Cix Liv, who confidently entered a San Francisco coffee shop and placed an order without attempting to hide the establishment’s location. Although Liv did not consume the beverage while wearing the headset, the video quickly went viral, raising questions about privacy and social etiquette. Ray Ng, the co-owner of Fiddle Fig Cafe, where the incident took place, dismissed it as a mere “stunt for laughs and giggles.” According to Ng, Liv removed the headset after ordering and the whole episode lasted no more than five minutes. However, such incidents may encourage attention-seekers to follow suit and push the boundaries further.
This is not the first time the public has been introduced to face computers. A decade ago, Google Glass faced significant backlash, leading to public establishments, such as restaurants, casinos, and theaters, banning the device outright. Reports emerged of individuals being assaulted for wearing similar devices, highlighting the growing resistance against wearable technology. However, it is essential to recognize that the situation has changed considerably since then. Our definition of privacy, tolerance for public photography, and acceptance of wearable technology have evolved.
In today’s world, smartphones with built-in cameras have become the norm, and small businesses often benefit from exposure through influencer marketing. For instance, Ng had no qualms about being named in this article, indicating a shift in attitudes towards public exposure. However, it remains to be seen whether Meta anticipated the Quest 3 becoming synonymous with the term “glasshole.” While the company has taken measures to address privacy concerns with its Ray-Ban-like glasses, it seems the same level of consideration was not given to the Quest 3. There are no published guidelines on using the headset responsibly, including proactive notifications of recording activities. Additionally, it is not immediately apparent to bystanders when the Quest 3 is recording, as it emits a slow and subtle white light, which is already on by default.
As wearable technology continues to advance, it is crucial to strike a balance between innovation and societal norms. The rise of Meta Glassholes brings great potential for enhancing our daily lives, but it also raises important questions regarding privacy and social boundaries. While it is unlikely that wearable technology will face the same level of backlash as it did in the past, responsible usage and open dialogue will be critical in shaping the future of these devices.
The Meta Quest 3 headset represents a significant leap forward in wearable technology. Its ability to seamlessly integrate with our daily routines is both impressive and thought-provoking. However, as society adapts to the presence of video-recording face computers, it is important for individuals and companies to consider the ethical implications of their actions. The quest for technological advancement should not come at the expense of privacy and social harmony. As we move into this new era of wearables, it is up to us to ensure that innovations like the Quest 3 are used responsibly and respectfully.
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