CAPtured Headpiece Enhances Digital Privacy in Public Spaces

Droga5 Dublin has introduced CAPtured, a unique wearable developed in collaboration with fashion designer Ancuta Sarca. Unveiled at London Fashion Week, the piece serves as both a design object and a technology prototype, addressing digital privacy concerns in public spaces.

The cap incorporates AI-powered vision technology capable of detecting when a smartphone camera is directed at it. Upon detection, a built-in mechanism deploys a cover over the wearer's face, concealing their identity and preventing unwanted appearances in social media content. Notably, the system interacts only with mobile phone cameras, leaving security infrastructure like CCTV unaffected.

The exterior design was crafted with Ancuta Sarca, known for her hybrid footwear and accessories, while the technological framework was engineered by Droga5 Dublin to function seamlessly within the compact format of a cap. Photographer Samuel McElwee documented the launch, highlighting the interaction between fashion, technology, and urban culture.

Beyond its immediate functionality, CAPtured is intended as a cultural statement, prompting discussions on consent and content creation in the age of pervasive social media. By merging responsive technology with fashion design, the project positions itself at the intersection of privacy, identity, and digital ethics.