Flock CEO says its microphones detect 'just gunshots' — its website says different
Langley’s comments come amid mounting scrutiny of Flock from privacy advocates, including the ACLU, and members of the public who are concerned about the misuse of its technology.
TL;DR
- Flock CEO Garrett Langley claims their gunshot-detection microphones detect exclusively gunshots.
- Flock's website states the audio systems can detect street takeovers, car crashes, and fireworks.
- The company initially faced backlash for listening for human voices, later amended to "sounds of human distress," which was then pulled.
- Langley defended the product, stating it alerts customers when 911 is not called for gunshots.
- A Flock spokesperson confirmed the technology can detect fireworks, sideshows, and car crashes, but not human screaming or distress.
- The company's "detection library is continually expanding."
- Flock faces scrutiny from privacy advocates like the ACLU and has seen partnerships with Amazon's Ring end, with Texas and Florida ending relationships.
- Protesters gathered against Flock's surveillance technology during Langley's appearance at TechCrunch Disrupt.