What in the World - Why are smart glasses so controversial?

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Smart glasses are big business, Meta, one of the leading manufacturers of the glasses say that last year they sold seven million pairs globally. But new designs that resemble regular sunglasses or reading frames mean they can be difficult to spot. Users can make phone calls, follow maps, and use AI assistants completely hands free. They can also use the built in camera to take photos and record videos subtly - this is part of the controversy. There have been cases of people being filmed secretly and posted online without their consent.

So how many people are buying smart glasses and how significant is the risk to privacy? BBC technology reporter Laura Cress tells us about the tech that goes into smart glasses and investigative reporter Georgia Poncia talks us through the concerns.

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Presenter: Iqra Farooq
Producer: Benita Barden and Emma-Louise Amanshia
Editor: Verity Wilde

Published on Friday, 19th June 2026.

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