Meta’s AI-powered smart glasses are facing growing scrutiny in the UK as concerns increase over privacy, covert recording and the rapid expansion of wearable artificial intelligence.

The Ray-Ban Meta glasses look similar to conventional eyewear but include cameras, microphones and AI features that allow users to capture photographs and video. A recent test in London found that members of the public often failed to recognise that the glasses could be recording them.

Privacy advocates and campaigners are warning that the technology could make discreet filming easier, particularly in busy public spaces. The concerns are emerging as smart glasses become more popular and technology companies compete to bring AI assistants into everyday wearable devices.

The issue is also affecting businesses and public venues. Some UK establishments have introduced restrictions on camera-equipped smart glasses amid concerns about privacy and unauthorised recording.

The debate highlights a wider challenge for the UK technology sector: how to encourage AI innovation and wearable technology while protecting people's privacy in public and private environments.