The smart-eyewear market hit a milestone in December 2025, as Ray-Ban Meta — the collaboration between Meta and eyewear maker EssilorLuxottica — reported a major revenue boost following broad adoption of its AR glasses. These devices, which integrate cameras, content streaming, and AI-powered digital assistants, are being positioned as potential smartphone alternatives. 

But the success comes with regulatory and privacy concerns. European regulators, invoking the provisions of the EU’s AI and data-protection laws, have started scrutinizing eyewear that records video or collects personal data without transparent consent mechanisms. Critics argue that current design — including minimalized recording indicators and data-sharing features — could threaten user privacy, especially in public spaces.

The smart-glasses trend encapsulates a larger shift in consumer tech: as devices become more capable and AI-powered, regulators and citizens alike are demanding clearer rules around consent, data usage, and surveillance. The path forward for smart eyewear — and similar wearables — may depend as much on legal frameworks and public trust as on technological capability.