● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportMedium impact1 neutral
Flock CEO States Microphones Detect Only Gunshots, Website Indicates Broader Audio Detection
Key points
- Flock CEO stated microphones detect 'just gunshots'.
- Flock's website lists detection of car crashes, fireworks, and sideshows.
- The company previously removed 'human distress' detection due to privacy concerns.
- Public opinion is shifting against mass surveillance companies like Flock.
CEO's Statement vs. Website Claims
During an appearance at TechCrunch Disrupt, Flock CEO Garrett Langley asserted that the company's Gunshot Detection microphones are designed to detect 'just gunshots.' This statement directly contrasts with information presented on Flock's official website, which details the system's capability to detect a wider range of ambient audio events.
Broader Audio Detection Capabilities
Flock's website specifies that its audio systems can instantly pinpoint gunfire, and also detect 'street takeovers early,' 'severe crashes in real time,' and 'expand awareness beyond gunfire with alerts for car crashes, fireworks, and sideshows.' This indicates a broader scope of audio monitoring than the CEO's recent public statement suggests.
Previous Privacy Concerns and Adjustments
The company's Gunshot Detection feature, launched last year, previously faced criticism for its stated ability to listen for 'screaming,' which was later amended to 'sounds of human distress' and subsequently removed altogether from customer offerings. Langley acknowledged making mistakes in product development but stated the company is now focused solely on gunshot detection.
Public Scrutiny and Misinformation Claims
Langley attributed some criticism to misinformation regarding how Flock's products function, while public opinion continues to grow against mass surveillance technologies, including license plate readers and audio detection systems. Protests against Flock were held outside the TechCrunch Disrupt venue where Langley spoke.
Product Rationale and Customer Feedback
Langley explained the product's origin, noting that many people do not call 911 after hearing a gunshot. He also mentioned that some customers requested alerts for abductions or harm in parking lots, leading to prototyping of such features. However, due to concerns, the company decided to focus solely on gunshots.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Flock CEO Garrett Langley stated that the company's Gunshot Detection microphones only detect gunshots, contradicting information on Flock's website which indicates the systems also detect car crashes, fireworks, and 'sideshows.' This discrepancy highlights ongoing concerns about the scope of audio surveillance by Flock, a company facing increasing public scrutiny over its data collection practices.