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ARTICLE · 26 AUGUST 2026

AI Glasses And Privacy: Are Our Laws Keeping Up?

Carroll & O'Dea
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Australia's new statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy, which commenced in June 2025, is being tested against emerging AI-powered smart glasses technology that can record audio and video discreetly. As these devices become more sophisticated and less detectable, questions arise about whether current privacy laws adequately protect individuals from covert surveillance and data collection in both public and private settings.

AustraliaPrivacy
Emily Katheklakis
Emily Katheklakis
Jackson Gilbert
Jackson Gilbert
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The rapid rise of artificial intelligence is changing the way we live, work and communicate. One of the latest developments is the emergence of AI-powered smart glasses, which allow users to record audio and video, identify people and objects, translate conversations in real time and access information almost instantly. While these technologies promise convenience and innovation, they also raise they also raise significant privacy concerns, as indicated in this recent news article. By making surveillance far less visible, these devices may enable recording without bystanders realising it and may reduce the extent to which individuals can control information about themselves.

These concerns have taken on added importance following the introduction of Australia’s new statutory tort for serious invasions of privacy, which commenced on 10 June 2025 as part of amendments to the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). The new cause of action gives individuals the ability to bring court proceedings where

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