Meta workers can pause workplace tracking for 30 minutes at a time
Original: Meta workers can opt out of being tracked at work up to 30 min
Why This Matters
Highlights growing tension between AI development needs and employee privacy rights in tech companies
Meta is scaling back its employee computer activity tracking program after internal backlash. Workers can now pause data collection for up to 30 minutes or request exemptions from the Model Capability Initiative that logs keystrokes and mouse clicks to train AI models.
Meta announced modifications to its controversial Model Capability Initiative (MCI) following employee criticism and a petition with over 1,500 signatures. The program, launched in April, tracks employee keystrokes and mouse clicks to train AI models for everyday computer tasks. Workers initially had no opt-out option but can now pause tracking for up to 30 minutes or request full exemptions. The tool reportedly consumed significant battery life and internet bandwidth. One employee called the tracking 'very dystopian' amid concerns about job security, as Meta has laid off around 2,000 employees this year with plans to cut 10% of its workforce. Vice President Stephane Kasriel's internal memo outlined optimizations to address battery consumption issues.