Kmart’s $89 Smart Glasses Fly Off Shelves Despite Privacy Fears
Synopsis
The Anko-branded wearable, which offers built-in video recording, has sold out online as critics warn the low-cost device could be used to secretly film people without their consent.
Kmart's $89 Anko smart glasses have sold out online that underscores growing consumer interest in affordable AI-powered wearable technology in Australia.
The glasses, which allow users to capture photos, videos and audio without using a smartphone, gained widespread attention after launching at a fraction of the price of premium alternatives such as Meta's smart glasses.
The rapid sell-out signals increasing demand for low-cost wearables but has also reignited concerns over privacy. Digital policy experts and privacy advocates argue that discreet recording capabilities could make it difficult for bystanders to know when they are being filmed.
Kmart said the glasses include an indicator light that activates during recording and urged customers to use the product responsibly and in line with privacy laws and community expectations.
Affordable Device Taps Growing Wearable Tech Market
The Anko smart glasses are powered by the HeyCyan AI assistant that places them within a fast-growing category of AI-enabled wearable devices. While similar products are available through online marketplaces such as Amazon and Temu, Kmart's nationwide retail presence has made the technology significantly more accessible to Australian consumers.
By comparison, Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses incorporate Meta AI and include an LED recording indicator designed to notify nearby people when the camera is active. Meta has also stated that it will take action against users who attempt to tamper with the recording indicator, reflecting the broader industry's focus on balancing innovation with user privacy.
Smart Glasses Market Expands Tremendously as AI Wearables Gain Mainstream Appeal
Kmart's latest product launch comes at a time when AI-powered smart glasses are moving beyond niche technology enthusiasts and into the mainstream consumer market.
Industry data shows global shipments of smart glasses grew 110% year-on-year in the first half of 2025. It is largely driven by strong demand for AI-enabled devices from companies including Meta and Xiaomi.
The launch also reflects Kmart Group's broader strategy of making emerging technology more affordable through its Anko private-label brand.
As per financial year 2025, Kmart Group reported revenue of $11.43 billion while its earnings before tax rose to $1.05 billion. These numbers highlight the retailer's strong market position within the Wesfarmers portfolio.
As AI wearables become more accessible, retailers are expected to benefit from rising consumer demand. However, the rapid adoption of camera-equipped smart glasses is also likely to intensify discussions around privacy, regulation and responsible product design.
Kmart's sell-out demonstrates that while affordability can accelerate adoption, public trust will remain just as important as technological innovation.
Source: Smart Company
At Inspirepreneurs Magazine, covering entrepreneurship, business failures, and the human stories behind the world's most ambitious founders. She writes at the intersection of strategy and storytelling.
