Privacy, Wearable Computers, And Recording Technology

There are classic anecdotes in the wearable computer community with mixed messages for privacy. Steve Mann has talked about sending photos via his wireless wearable from the grocery store to discuss the produce with his wife, although his camera might be transmitting images of people with the vegetables. MIT Media Lab wearables researchers (including Thad Starner, a member of this panel) sometimes talk of the benefits of having typed the statements that people make, so they have records. However, these instances exemplify potential social risks that may be caused by wearable computer technology. Although the people using the technology benefit from it, those who are incidentally recorded (either visually, or in having everyday comments be on the record) may react negatively. These are not reactions to Big Brother, but rather to acquaintances having records of you.