Real-time translation, covert photo-taking, built-in conversational assistant: smart glasses are positioning themselves as the next major consumer gadget. But their rise increasingly worries data protection authorities. In France, the CNIL has opened a dedicated action plan, while several European countries are now considering possible restrictions, or even targeted bans.
Glasses that record without people really knowing
The principle of AI-connected glasses is based on a discreet camera integrated into the frame, capable of taking photos, recording videos or capturing audio with a simple gesture. The problem: people being recorded often have no way of knowing they are. An investigation carried out in Germany showed that the indicator light meant to signal recording on a very widespread model remains virtually invisible in broad daylight, and that some users even manage to disable it via unofficial modifications.
The CNIL steps in
In France, the CNIL published an alert on smart glasses on May 11, 2026 before launching a specific action plan. According to a survey cited by the regulator, 67% of respondents believe these devices pose a risk to privacy. The Commission points in particular to three dangers: the capture of images and sounds without the consent of those filmed, possible misuse via artificial intelligence — notably the creation of hyper-deepfakes from faces captured without passersby’s knowledge — and uncertainty surrounding the future use of the data thus collected. The CNIL has chosen to bring the case to the level of the European Data Protection Board (CEPD) to obtain a coordinated response across the continent.
Several European countries are considering restrictions
France is not alone in its concerns. According to specialized international press, Germany and the Netherlands are also examining the compliance of certain models with European data protection rules, notably regarding the issue of genuine consent from those filmed. An investigation by Swedish media also revealed that subcontractors based in Kenya had viewed footage captured by smart glasses to train algorithms, footage that included highly intimate scenes filmed without the consent of the people concerned. This has fueled calls for stricter regulation, or even targeted bans in certain countries.
- An indicator light deemed insufficient to warn people being filmed
- Suspicions of deliberate circumvention of the recording signal
- Sensitive images viewed by subcontractors to train AIs
What the European regulation on artificial intelligence changes
As soon as they include AI functions, notably facial recognition or biometric analysis, these glasses fall within the scope of the European regulation on artificial intelligence (RIA). The text requires an assessment of the level of risk as well as transparency guarantees for both the user and third parties filmed. A report from the European Data Protection Board on smart glasses is expected before the end of summer 2026 and should clarify the obligations placed on manufacturers. This case illustrates a broader issue in high technology: the race for innovation in embedded AI increasingly clashes with European law requirements on the protection of personal data. For consumers, caution remains advisable before any purchase, a topic that directly affects everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are smart glasses banned in France?
No, they remain freely available for sale, but the CNIL has opened an action plan and is pushing for stronger regulation at the European level, with no ban having been enacted to date.
How can I tell if someone is filming me with this type of glasses?
Most models have an indicator light intended to signal recording, but several data protection authorities consider this signal often too discreet to be truly effective in real-world conditions.
What do manufacturers risk in case of non-compliance?
Models that include biometric AI functions fall within the scope of the European regulation on AI, which requires risk assessments and transparency obligations, under penalty of sanctions.
Sources
CNIL.fr — Usine Digitale — TechRadar
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