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ARTICLE · 03 NOVEMBER 2026

European Data Protection Board (EDPB) Releases Smart Glasses Statement

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The European Data Protection Board has issued guidance on smart glasses, addressing the complex privacy challenges posed by wearable devices that can record audio and video in public and private spaces. The statement examines transparency requirements, legal bases for processing, and the applicability of the household exemption when these devices capture data from unsuspecting bystanders. Manufacturers, service providers, and users must navigate overlapping obligations under GDPR, ePrivacy rules, and other

European UnionPrivacy
Nigel Parker
Nigel Parker
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On October 13, 2026, the EDBP adopted statement 01/2026 on smart glasses (the Statement).

What are smart glasses?

The Statement defines smart glasses broadly as wearables that often look like regular glasses or sunglasses and incorporate computing capabilities such as cameras, microphones, speakers or software (including AI systems), and which may connect to the internet, other devices or mobile applications.

The EDPB notes that smart glasses often cannot be easily recognised, and that non-consensual recording (both audio and visual), especially in “sensitive” contexts, such as those where minors are present, or where medical data is being shared, is a particular area of concern.

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