Smartglasses Sales Jump 167% to 2.25 Million as Privacy Backlash Grows
Updated
Updated · Inkl · Jul 25
Smartglasses Sales Jump 167% to 2.25 Million as Privacy Backlash Grows
3 articles · Updated · Inkl · Jul 25
Summary
More than 2.25 million smartglasses sold in the first quarter of 2026, matching roughly all of 2024 even as critics warn the camera-equipped devices are spreading faster than privacy safeguards.
Rogue users have filmed women without consent, shared clips for seduction coaching and used "stealth stickers" to hide recording lights, fueling calls for stricter controls and clearer warnings.
Meta holds more than two-thirds of the market, while Samsung and Google plan launches within months, saying new models will add built-in privacy features and AI functions such as calls, translation and visual search.
Analysts say the category's reputation is being damaged by its emphasis on hands-free filming, even though accessibility and navigation uses could broaden its appeal if companies better explain the benefits.