Urdu Report Desk
The use of smart glasses is growing rapidly around the world, but concerns over covert photography and video recording in public places have raised new questions about privacy and harassment.
AI-powered smart glasses allow users to make phone calls, listen to music and interact with artificial intelligence without using their hands. They can also capture photographs and record videos.
Meta-Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Gain Popularity
Smart glasses developed through a partnership between Meta and Ray-Ban are among the most prominent products in the market. The companies claim that more than seven million pairs have been sold.
However, the growing popularity of the technology has also raised concerns about its potential misuse, particularly when people are recorded without their knowledge.
Businesses Introduce Restrictions Over Privacy Concerns
An organisation operating around 800 pubs in the United Kingdom has banned filming with smart glasses inside its venues.
The organisation said the technology could enable covert surveillance, which goes against commonly accepted principles of privacy.
Organisers of Comic Con events in Northern Ireland have also prohibited the use of smart glasses because of concerns over secret recordings.
Women’s rights organisations have likewise expressed concern about the possible misuse of the technology.
Risks of Covert Recording and Harassment
Experts say that people being recorded with conventional cameras or mobile phones can generally recognise what is happening. However, AI-powered camera glasses can potentially record individuals without their knowledge.
Concerns have also been raised about the possible use of smart glasses for upskirting, harassment and other illegal activities.
The ability to capture images and videos discreetly has intensified debate over privacy and the need for stronger safeguards.
Smart Glasses Also Offer Potential Benefits
Despite these concerns, content creators are using the technology for positive purposes.
Price Valley, a 31-year-old content creator from Belfast, records videos of friendly conversations with people on the streets using his smart glasses. One of his videos received 600,000 views on TikTok.
Experts also believe that smart glasses could prove useful for people with visual impairments.
Need for Clear Privacy Regulations
Experts say that as smart glasses become more widespread, the need for clear regulations governing privacy, consent and legal protection is becoming increasingly important.
While the technology offers convenience and potential benefits, concerns over covert recording and misuse highlight the need for safeguards that protect individuals in public spaces.
