China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology-backed institute has released the nation's inaugural code of conduct for AI smart glasses, targeting privacy issues sparked by hidden recordings with these increasingly popular devices.
- China’s first AI smart glasses privacy code urges minimal data collection and visible recording indicators.
- Public backlash after covert filming incidents involving Rokid smart glasses.
- Smart glasses shipments surged 87.1% in China in 2025, intensifying privacy debates.
What happened
China has introduced a voluntary code of conduct directed at manufacturers of artificial intelligence smart glasses, prompted by increasing public concern over covert filming by users of these devices. The guidelines, released by the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, recommend a minimum data collection approach, clear visual indicators when recording is active, and explicit user consent before any recording takes place.
The move comes after a series of incidents involving Rokid, a Hangzhou-based technology firm, whose smart glasses users were caught secretly filming strangers in public places such as subways, parks, and shopping malls. Videos of these covert recordings circulated online, drawing widespread attention and criticism. Rokid responded by removing some footage, blocking user accounts, and pledging design changes to prevent users from obscuring recording indicator lights.
Why it matters
The rapid growth of smart glasses as a consumer electronics category in China highlights the urgency of addressing privacy and data security risks. IDC data shows shipments jumped 87.1 percent to 2.46 million units in 2025 alone, signaling broad adoption of smart eyewear technology as a next-generation computing platform that blends cameras and audio recording functions into daily life.
This technology intensifies concerns over personal privacy, particularly with AI-powered features that can process and collect sensitive information. By instituting guidelines to increase transparency and safeguard user data, China aims to contain these risks and set a standard for responsible innovation in wearable AI devices. The guidelines also include calls for more explainable AI algorithms and prioritizing on-device data processing to reduce reliance on cloud storage and potential vulnerabilities.
What to watch next
Observers should monitor how smart glasses manufacturers in China implement these voluntary guidelines and whether the government moves toward formal regulation. The effectiveness of design changes such as visible indicators and limitations on data collection will be critical in rebuilding consumer trust and curbing misuse.
Privacy concerns linked to wearable AI devices are global, with incidents like Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses contractor review of private footage prompting international debate on data governance. Developments in China could influence regulatory approaches elsewhere as AI glasses continue to emerge as defining consumer tech products.