Meta has removed facial recognition functionality from the backend of its Meta AI app following a report by Wired that revealed the inclusion of facial ID code elements. Although these elements were not active, their presence hinted at future activation plans. Meta's spokesperson, Andy Stone, criticized the report, calling it 'shoddy' and 'advocacy-driven click bait,' which preceded the company's decision to retract the code. This cautious approach stems from Meta's history with facial recognition, notably the backlash in 2021 that forced the company to shut down its facial recognition processes on Facebook. The controversy surrounding data privacy, including the Cambridge Analytica scandal, has made Meta particularly sensitive to public perception regarding facial recognition technology. Despite this, Meta has been quietly reintroducing facial recognition features for account security. Reports indicate that the company aims to implement facial ID on AI glasses while minimizing public backlash by launching during politically turbulent times. This strategy reflects a broader trend of managing public relations while navigating complex privacy issues.