Google began taking preorders for its AI smart glasses, Intelligent Eyewear, and unveiled security measures to prevent covert filming and personal data violations. It applied a range of safeguards in hardware and software to protect the privacy of not only wearers but also people nearby.

On Nov. 13 (local time), Japanese media outlet Gigazine reported that Google announced a privacy policy for the smart glasses co-developed with Samsung Electronics, Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. The product will be released on Dec. 10.

Intelligent Eyewear has a frame weighing about 41 grams and includes a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, a microphone and open-ear speakers. Battery life is up to 9 hours. Users can ask Gemini about nearby objects, translate foreign languages and receive voice navigation guidance from Google Maps.

The key is an LED indicator that shows whether recording is taking place. The external indicator lights up when photos or videos are saved to the gallery, and if it is covered or tampered with, sensors detect it and block recording.

Protective measures also apply to video processed by AI. When Gemini recognises the surrounding environment, it automatically blurs the faces of other people it captures. It is designed to use a directional microphone to focus on the wearer's voice rather than those nearby.

Video information collected to generate Gemini's responses is not saved in usage history and is not used for AI training or personalised advertising. Photos and videos that users directly instruct the device to capture are saved to the gallery.

Data stored on the device and information transmitted externally are encrypted, and users can set camera and microphone access permissions by app. Users can delete Gemini conversation history or set it so it is not used to improve AI models.

Google requires users to agree to conditions including a ban on unauthorised filming. On Google Play, it also bans social media live streaming using the smart glasses camera, real-time facial recognition and apps that manipulate the LED.

Initial device setup is restricted to Google accounts for users aged 18 and older. Still, how effective these protections will be in real-world use will need to be verified after launch.