Google Glass was unveiled in 2012 to great fanfare (Goldman, 2012). But widespread criticism of the product for its aesthetic (some considered it bulky and uncomfortable) and its price (it cost more than £1,000 on release), coupled with safety and privacy concerns, led to its discontinuation in 2023 (Weidner, 2024). 

“I don’t think they really respected the eyewear and optometry industry and the needs of customers,” says Will Wang, Founder and CEO of Even Realities, which manufactures the Even G1 smart glasses. “Privacy was also an issue. People aren’t comfortable having cameras on their faces.”

Google Glass offered prescription lens versions, but primarily the device was a wearable computer that allowed users to take photos and videos, make calls, navigate and view notifications like a smartphone. Fast forward to 2025, and the use and sale of smart devices in optometry practices are gaining momentum.