Texas bans Instagram filters after the state of Texas sued Meta, Instagram’s parent company, alleging it uses facial recognition technology that is illegal and infringes upon Texans’ privacy rights.
Texas bans Instagram filters for privacy reasons
Previously, the firm utilized face recognition technology, but it was discontinued in November 2021. Texas bans Instagram filters claiming that the company’s social media platforms, such as Instagram, include face recognition technology without their knowledge. Texas bans Instagram filters but color filters that alter the photo’s color or background will still be accessible.
In February, a lawsuit was filed against Facebook in Texas, but no settlement has been reached or made. A settlement was reached in Illinois and disabling filters in Texas is as a result of that. The Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act, prohibits the use of facial recognition technology without permission. Recently Instagram started testing NFTs, Texas may ban it too.
Meta announced on Wednesday some filters would no longer be available in Texas, though it denies Paxton’s claims.
The company sent this statement:
“The technology we use to power augmented reality effects like avatars and filters is not facial recognition or any technology covered by the Texas and Illinois laws, and is not used to identify anyone. Nevertheless, we are taking this step to prevent meritless and distracting litigation under laws in these two states based on a mischaracterization of how our features work. We remain committed to delivering AR experiences that people love, and that a diverse roster of creators use to grow their businesses, without needless friction or confusion.”
The firm also revealed that it will soon release an “opt-in experience that explains how AR effect placement works,” with the goal of resuming operations in Texas across apps and devices.
By the way did you know that Meta AR glasses will be reportedly launched in 2024.
