tech
‘I’m not spying’: how Meta’s smartglasses have divided opinion
While some users say the wearables have changed their lives, critics voice fears over safety and privacy
TL;DR
- Meta's smartglasses are experiencing significant sales, with over 7 million pairs reportedly sold in 2025.
- Supporters highlight the glasses' ability to transform photography and improve accessibility, especially for visually impaired users.
- Critics raise alarms about privacy, data collection, and the potential for non-consensual filming.
- Some users have reported being stopped by security due to fears of recording, despite not intending to spy.
- Accessibility features, like live captioning, have not been universally successful, failing in noisy or group environments for some users.
- Concerns exist about the pervasiveness of discreet cameras and the lack of safeguards and lagging regulations.
- Skepticism remains high regarding where personal data collected by the glasses ends up and how it is used.
- While acknowledging potential benefits, many express a lack of trust in the technology and demand stronger safeguards.