A new app called Nearby Glasses has been developed for Android devices, designed to scan the surrounding area and alert users when smart glasses are nearby.
Source: Google Play.This open-source utility tracks devices using their unique Bluetooth identifiers and can identify products from Meta (Oakley) and Snap.
When a relevant signal is detected, Nearby Glasses sends a notification to the user. Users can also add their own Bluetooth keys to expand the list of devices.
On the GitHub page, the app's developer, Yves Jeanreno, described smart glasses as "an unbearable invasion of privacy, a disregard for others' will, and a terrible technological invention."
"Some smart glasses have a small LED that indicates recording is in progress. But it can be easily turned off [...] Fourth-generation smart glasses have already been used for instant facial recognition, and reportedly, this feature will be available in the fifth generation. This endangers many people," said the creator of Nearby Glasses.
Jeanreno also warned that his app may have inaccuracies when identifying other devices from smart glasses manufacturers. He urged users not to harass individuals based on suspicions of wearing hidden recording devices.
In an interview with 404 Media, the developer explained that he was inspired to create the app by news of covert surveillance using smart glasses. Such technology has been used during immigration raids in the U.S. and for filming and blackmailing sex workers.
"Clearly, surveillance technology is not only used for selfish purposes by government thugs but also fosters misogynistic behavior and a culture of rape," Jeanreno noted.
As a reminder, in September 2025, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg unveiled the Meta Ray-Ban Display, the first smart glasses with a built-in display.
In November, the Chinese corporation Alibaba began selling smart glasses with its own AI technology called Qwen.