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Privacy watchdog launches probe into China-based company behind Kmart ‘pervert glasses’ app

The Guardian October 06, 2026 14 views
Privacy watchdog launches probe into China-based company behind Kmart ‘pervert glasses’ app

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Privacy Regulator Opens Probe into Kmart Smartglasses App Developer

The Australian Privacy Commissioner has initiated an investigation into Shenzhen Qingcheng, the Chinese software company behind the HeyCyan app, following public outcry over the alleged misuse of Kmart's smartglasses.

The controversy originated in August when Guardian Australia reported that Kmart sold out of Anko-branded discount smartglasses, a version of the original product developed by US tech giant, Meta.

These glasses, priced at $89, have the capability to capture images and record high-definition video, leading to widespread concern and calls for a ban or restriction on their use.

Kmart Smartglasses App Raises Privacy Issues

The HeyCyan app, integrated into the Kmart smartglasses, has reportedly sparked concerns over the potential misuse of personal data and surveillance.

Commissioner's office stated that Shenzhen Qingcheng failed to respond to inquiries regarding the app's data handling practices.

Australia to Monitor Smartglasses Market

In light of the recent events, the Australian Privacy Commissioner has pledged to closely monitor the smartglasses market to ensure compliance with privacy regulations.

The investigation will focus on assessing the data protection measures implemented by the app developers and Kmart, as well as analyzing potential risks to consumers' personal information.

Public Outcry Over Kmart Smartglasses

The Kmart smartglasses, priced at $89, have been sold out due to high demand from consumers.

However, the integration of the HeyCyan app has led to widespread public concern and calls for stricter regulations on the smartglasses market.

Shenzhen Qingcheng Fails to Respond

The Australian Privacy Commissioner has expressed frustration over Shenzhen Qingcheng's failure to address concerns raised regarding the app's data handling practices.

The Commissioner's office stated that they have yet to receive a response from the company despite repeated attempts to contact them.

Australia to Monitor Smartglasses Market

Following the public outcry and lack of response from Shenzhen Qingcheng, the Australian Privacy Commissioner has pledged to closely monitor the smartglasses market to ensure compliance with privacy regulations.

The investigation will focus on assessing the data protection measures implemented by the app developers and Kmart, as well as analyzing potential risks to consumers' personal information.

Kmart Smartglasses: Sold Out Amid Public Concern

The Kmart smartglasses, priced at $89, have been sold out due to high demand from consumers.

However, the integration of the HeyCyan app has led to widespread public concern and calls for stricter regulations on the smartglasses market.

<small>Source: The Guardian — read the original story there.</small>

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