'People call them pervert glasses': Blind users fear backlash over smart tech

Visually impaired users of Meta's AI-powered smart glasses say a backlash over covert filming, which has led some venues to ban the devices, is harming their independence. Fraser Fleming, 44, from Motherwell, who is registered blind, told BBC's Your Voice that people call the glasses "pervert glasses" and that he sometimes removes them in public to avoid confrontation, forcing him to rely on other senses.

Tracey Rogerson, another user with sight loss, said she was "shocked" by the label and depends on the glasses to maintain independence.

Some events, including ComicCon Scotland in Edinburgh, have banned or restricted Meta glasses over fears of secret recording. Gordon Brown, a severely sight-impaired attendee from Inverkip, said the impact on disabled people has been overlooked and that he will not attend this year.

Monopoly Events, which runs the convention, announced a ban in July to "stop secret filming". Cosplay artist Teah Pearn, who was secretly filmed at a Birmingham convention, said restrictions are needed but should include exceptions for disability.

Meta said its glasses are "built to be noticed" with a bright blinking light that cannot be turned off, and that the camera is disabled if tampered with. The company said it is proud the glasses give blind and low-vision users greater independence.