What Churches Need to Know About Smart Glasses
Imagine this: On a Sunday morning, you notice a visitor in the church lobby who seems to be surveying the room in an unusual way. The person is wearing a new pair of smart glasses that can record video or snap photos with just a voice command. In a setting where photography and videography are restricted during services, a staff member or volunteer might be asked to request that the guest remove the glasses, especially since they could potentially record sensitive areas such as children’s zones or restrooms. The guest, however, explains that these are his prescription glasses and he has no alternative pair available. This situation, while seemingly unlikely, has already occurred and may become more common as the technology spreads.
Next Frontier of Wearable Tech
A decade ago, the Apple Watch transformed a niche gadget into a mainstream accessory, much like smartphones have evolved over time. Smart glasses are following a similar path. Unlike the bulky virtual reality headsets that require extra effort and may feel awkward in public, these glasses build on an everyday item—eyewear—making them an attractive option for quickly reading messages or capturing moments. While initially designed for general consumers, these devices have found unexpected benefits for people with visual impairments. For many, these glasses represent a breakthrough in accessibility by offering assistance at an affordable price point.
However, the same features that empower one group can be misused by those with other, less benign intentions.
“Hey Meta, Take a Video”
Like many modern, AI-enabled devices, these smart glasses respond to voice commands. Users can ask them to make phone calls, snap photos, or record video, and even request AI-generated descriptions of their surroundings. This capability is especially helpful for individuals who are visually impaired.
When a recording is initiated, a built-in LED light on the glasses is designed to turn on, serving as an indicator that recording is in progress. While this might seem like a responsible design choice, many users have sought ways to disable the light. Various methods have been discussed—from covering the light with tape to performing modifications on the device. Even though current models resist tampering to ensure that recording stops if the indicator is disabled, it’s only a matter of time before alternative devices appear that allow discreet recording. This potential for misuse raises concerns about privacy and safety, particularly in environments like churches.
How Can Churches Keep Their People Safe?
Protecting the congregation means recognizing that just one instance of misuse can have long-lasting repercussions. To reduce the risk of someone taking advantage of smart glasses for harmful purposes, churches can adopt several proactive measures:
Incorporate Smart Glasses into Existing Policies
Update your church’s photography rules and security procedures to specifically address smart glasses. Photos and videos captured using these devices should adhere to the same standards of privacy, consent, and scope as those taken by other cameras. It is particularly important to establish clear rules for areas where minors are present, such as nurseries, children’s ministry spaces, and frequently used restrooms. Some churches may choose to allow the use of smart glasses only for individuals with visual impairments, while others might adopt more flexible guidelines in public areas. Deciding on these policies now will help prevent future complications as the technology becomes more widespread.
Educate Your Volunteer Teams
Ensure that all staff and volunteers are thoroughly briefed on the new guidelines. They should be able to clearly explain the policies regarding smart glasses and know exactly what steps to take if an issue arises. Proper training will enable your team to handle situations confidently and consistently.
Support Inclusivity for the Visually Impaired
While it’s important to control the use of smart glasses for privacy reasons, it’s equally vital to provide meaningful support to those who rely on them. Enhance accessibility by offering printed materials in large print, braille, or digital streams that can be viewed on mobile devices. Consider assigning volunteer assistants to help visually impaired attendees navigate the church environment. By providing a range of accommodation options, smart glasses will remain one of many tools available for accessibility, rather than the sole solution.
Taking preventive action now will help ensure that your church remains a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
Rockin’ the faith, one verse at a time!
Growing up, the Bible’s stories deeply impacted me. Now, with over 15 years of preaching experience, I blend timeless teachings with modern technology, making them relevant for today’s world.
Bible Hub Verse is my platform to share historical insights and thought-provoking articles, exploring both familiar and uncommon Christian topics. My passion is building a welcoming online space for everyone to learn, grow in their faith, and discover the Bible’s enduring message.
Join the journey!
God bless you.
By
