Privacy regulator investigates app behind Kmart smartglasses controversy

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 02:07 · Archive

Australia's privacy regulator has opened an investigation into the Chinese company behind an app in Kmart's $89 smartglasses.

Australia's privacy regulator has launched an investigation into Shenzhen Qingcheng, a China-based software company behind the HeyCyan app used in Kmart's Anko-branded smartglasses. The regulator said the company failed to respond to inquiries. The $89 devices, which can capture images and record high-definition video, sparked public outrage over their covert use.

Kmart has removed the smartglasses from its website following the backlash. The devices were previously sold out after the controversy emerged in August.

How it is being reported

• Kmart's controversial $89 'pervert glasses' vanish from retailer's website after backlash from AussiesThe Anko smart glasses, which were able to take photos and record video via a camera built into the frame, were no longer available to purchase on Kmart's website as of Thursday.Daily Mail · 8 Oct, 01:45
• Privacy regulator launches probe into China-based company behind Kmart ‘pervert glasses’ appCommissioner said Shenzhen Qingcheng, the app maker behind the HeyCyan app in the smartglasses, failed to respond to her inquiries Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast The Australian privacy regulator has opened an investigation into the China-based software company behind the HeyCyan app in Kmart’s $89 smartglasses, following public outrage over the covert use of the devices. In August, Guardian Australia reported Kmart had sold out of the Anko-branded discount version of Meta’s smartglasses that can capture images and record high-definition video, which led to…Guardian World · 7 Oct, 00:02

In this story: Australian Privacy Regulator · Shenzhen Qingcheng · Kmart · Australia · China

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