A new app alerts you if someone nearby is wearing smart glasses

4 hours ago

An Android app named Nearby Glasses can detect and alert users when nearby smart glasses or Bluetooth-enabled recording devices are present.
The app scans for Bluetooth signals from manufacturers like Meta (Ray-Ban) and Snap, and users can add custom identifiers to detect other devices.
It was created by Yves Jeanrenaud, inspired by reports on surveillance abuses, such as using smart glasses in immigration raids and harassment.
Jeanrenaud criticizes smart glasses as privacy-invasive, especially citing Meta's default face recognition feature.
The app may produce false positives, like mistaking Meta's VR headsets for smart glasses, but these are usually more noticeable.
Testing showed the app works effectively, detecting Apple devices via a custom Bluetooth identifier.
Jeanrenaud views the app as a 'desperate act of resistance' against social problems amplified by technology.
Snap claims its glasses have privacy features like LED indicators, but did not detail prevention of unwanted recordings.
Meta did not comment on the app or privacy concerns.

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