GitHub - yjeanrenaud/yj_nearbyglasses: attempting to detect smart glasses nearby and warn you
Hacker News
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Nearby Glasses app, developed by Yves Jeanrenaud, aims to detect smart glasses nearby through Bluetooth LE signals and alert users if they are present. The app scans for specific manufacturer identifiers in Bluetooth data transmitted by devices, but it acknowledges limitations such as potential false positives from similar devices like VR headsets or other tech products. Users are cautioned to approach situations with care, as the app’s notifications may not always accurately identify smart glasses.
The app operates on a heuristic approach due to technical constraints. BLE signals use randomized MAC addresses and unstable OSSID, making it difficult to rely solely on beacon scanning. Instead, the app relies on manufacturer-specific data in Bluetooth advertising frames, which can sometimes misidentify devices. For instance, Meta’s products may be detected due to shared company identifiers, leading to potential inaccuracies.
The developer emphasizes that smart glasses pose significant privacy risks, such as enabling facial recognition and real-time recording without clear user consent. While some models include LEDs to signal recording, these features are often easily disabled, leaving users vulnerable to misuse. The Nearby Glasses app serves as a tool to raise awareness about these risks, allowing users to take precautions in environments where smart glasses might be present.
Despite its limitations, the app is open-source and free, giving users the ability to review and modify its code. It does not collect any user data, telemetry, or ads, ensuring privacy. However, if logfiles are exported, it’s up to the user to manage this data responsibly. The app highlights the broader issue of smart glasses’ potential for misuse, making it a valuable resource for tech-savvy individuals concerned about their privacy in public spaces.
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Originally published on Hacker News on 2/24/2026