Visually impaired people say smart glasses stigma excludes them from public spaces

Visually impaired people say smart glasses stigma excludes them from public spaces

People with sight loss say they are being unfairly excluded from public spaces because of the stigma around smart glasses. Many visually impaired users describe the technology as game-changing. The glasses can help with everyday tasks such as using public transport or reading street signs.

But the devices are controversial. They have been used to secretly record people without consent. Some pubs, restaurants and cinemas have banned them, and other venues have restricted their use. The tension between accessibility and privacy is central to the debate.

Fraser Fleming began losing his sight in his early 20s. He uses smart glasses to help him get around. In one demonstration, he walked along Elmbank Street and asked the glasses whether there were many people in front of him. The device replied that there were people walking around him and offered to describe them further. He also asked the glasses to describe a building. It described a large multi-storey structure with distinct art deco styling. Mr Fleming does not rely only on what the glasses tell him, but says they help him build a more complete picture of his surroundings.

He said the rise in popularity of smart glasses has had downsides. The perception, and sometimes the reality, that people are using them to secretly film others has created problems. He said quite a lot of people confront wearers for recording in public, or simply ask if they are recording. 'I've got enough to worry about when I'm trying to get from A to B,' he said. The stigma means he adapts his usage at certain times to reduce confrontation, even though that limits the benefit.

Other people using the technology for sight loss share that concern. One user said she was shocked to hear the glasses called 'pervert glasses'. She said they are a big part of her life and help her maintain her independence.

Meta says a light makes it clear when the smart glasses are recording. The company warns users not to engage in harmful activities. Even so, some venues have banned or restricted the glasses. Comicon Scotland, which is being held in Edinburgh later this month, has tighter rules. As a result, visually impaired fan Gordon Brown says he will not attend. He said that even if he put his glasses on briefly to do the sign, he would not feel comfortable. He called it a matter of principle because organisers were not willing to engage.

Organisers Monopoly Events announced the ban in July. They said it was based on feedback from convention performers and attendees. A cosplay artist who was filmed unknowingly at a Comicon believes her experience shows why restrictions are needed. 'I felt violated. I think it was just, why couldn't you ask me first?' she said. She said the person was purposely trying to provoke her or make strange comments to get a reaction and a perfect clip to post on social media.

The debate is playing catch-up with the technology. Fraser Fleming wants to ensure the voices of visually impaired people are not drowned out as venues and companies respond to privacy fears.