Flock CEO says its microphones detect ‘just gunshots.’ Its website says different
techcrunch ·
Flock CEO Garrett Langley stated at TechCrunch Disrupt that the company's microphones detect only gunshots, contradicting marketing materials on the Flock website. The website claims the audio systems can also identify severe crashes, fireworks, sideshows, and street takeovers to provide broader public safety awareness. This discrepancy arises amid growing privacy concerns and pushback from advocates who previously criticized the company for listening to human voices. Langley defended the product by arguing that most people do not call 911 for gunshots, necessitating automated detection. He admitted to prototyping features for distress sounds but claimed they were removed due to customer concerns. A company spokesperson clarified that while the technology is capable of detecting other events like car crashes, it is not designed to monitor conversations or analyze speech. Despite these assurances, Flock faces mounting scrutiny, with several states ending partnerships and Amazon Ring terminating its relationship with the firm. The incident highlights the tension between surveillance capabilities and public trust in AI-driven security technologies.
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