Prof. And Algül, who evaluated the topic of smart glasses, which are becoming more frequently used in daily life with the rapid spread of wearable technologies, said, “Smart glasses are generally equipped with a built-in camera, microphone, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connection, sensors, and in some models, artificial intelligence-supported software. Users can take photos and videos, record audio, and in some models, instantly share images on social media with these devices.”
Prof. And Algül stated, “When used correctly, smart glasses offer significant opportunities for creative production and communication. However, uncontrolled use turns these devices into tools for privacy violation and surveillance.”
Prof. And Algül, Head of the Visual Communication Design Department at Üsküdar University, Faculty of Communication, evaluated the topic of smart glasses, which are becoming more frequently used in daily life with the rapid spread of wearable technologies.
Smart glasses have entered every aspect of life
Prof. And Algül pointed out that some products offer “hands-free” image capture, stating, “The use of these devices in the social sphere also brings up discussions about privacy, personal data, and surveillance. As of 2026, smart glasses are generally equipped with a built-in camera, microphone, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connection, sensors, and in some models, artificial intelligence-supported software. Users can take photos and videos, record audio, and in some models, instantly share images on social media with these devices.”
Prof. Algül stated that these devices can be used in the fields of content creation, communication, education, and technical support, adding, “The ability of the devices to record images as if seen through the user’s eyes places them in a different position from other cameras.”
A common accessory, or a potential surveillance tool?
Pointing out that according to experts, smart glasses are not just a technological product but also a potential surveillance tool, Prof. Algül said, “The fact that camera recording often goes unnoticed leads to individuals in the vicinity being recorded without their consent. This situation also brings Michel Foucault's idea of ‘continuous surveillance’ and Shoshana Zuboff’s concept of ‘surveillance capitalism’ back onto the agenda.”
Are images taken with smart glasses considered personal data?
Emphasizing that according to the Personal Data Protection Law (KVKK) No. 6698, which is in force in Turkey, any information belonging to a specific or identifiable person is considered personal data, Prof. And Algül continued:
“In this context, facial images, voice recordings, and images containing location information are considered personal data. Especially facial images and voice recordings, as they can directly reveal a person's identity, can be evaluated as biometric data and fall under the status of sensitive personal data. According to the KVKK, individuals using smart glasses should not record without explicit consent, avoid taking images in private areas (such as homes, schools, hospitals), not use recorded data for purposes other than intended, and not share images without permission. Otherwise, both administrative and criminal liabilities may arise.”
Sharing on social media and its consequences
Prof. Algül stated that sharing images taken with smart glasses on social media carries serious risks such as violation of personal rights, digital lynching, use out of context, and data security breaches. “Especially sharing images taken in public areas by detaching them from their context can lead to loss of reputation for individuals,” he said.
Risk of covert filming and digital harassment…
Prof. And Algül, stating that experts warn that smart glasses can be misused for covert filming and digital harassment, said, “For women and children, these devices can increase the risks of unauthorized image capture, tracking and surveillance, and digital violence and harassment. This situation brings to the forefront the necessity of addressing technological progress with a gender and child safety perspective.”
What should smart glasses users pay attention to?
Prof. Algül warned, “Those who want to use smart glasses should visibly indicate that the device is in use and recording, take care not to record in crowded and private areas, be aware of legal issues and limitations on the subject, and prioritize obtaining explicit consent from individuals in the captured images before sharing them.” He added, “If unauthorized use of smart glasses is noticed, the recorder should be warned, the recorded data should be documented as evidence, and if necessary, the issue should be reported to law enforcement, the prosecutor's office, and KVKK.”
Smart glasses: Technology or boundary violation?
Prof. And Algül concluded his words by saying, “When used correctly, smart glasses offer significant opportunities for creative production and communication. However, uncontrolled use turns these devices into tools for privacy violation and surveillance. The real issue is not about being able to obtain images technically and practically with the possibilities offered by smart glasses, it's not about technology; the issue is about ethics, legal awareness, and user responsibility.”