Slate Business What Next: TBD | 2025: Dystopian Tech of the Year
Jan 2, 2026
Nitish Pahwa, a staff writer at Slate covering tech and its societal impacts, delves into the intriguing world of AI sunglasses. He discusses the privacy concerns surrounding these devices and explores what makes them 'smart' with innovative features. Pahwa highlights the competitive tech landscape with major players like Meta and Amazon jumping back into smart glasses. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas of AI, including recreating deceased loved ones and the changing dynamics of human interaction. Will the future of AI leave us more connected or isolated?
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Invisible Surveillance In Stylish Shades
- Embedding generative AI into stylish sunglasses makes surveillance invisible and socially acceptable.
- Nitish Pahwa warns these AI glasses can record and link data without bystanders knowing they are being filmed.
Glasses Are Mini Computers
- Smart glasses are effectively mini computers on your face with cameras, speakers, and LLM interfaces.
- Pahwa says the hardware push aims to move AI beyond phones into everyday wearable form factors.
From Google Glass To Oakley AI
- Nitish Pahwa recalls being allergic to Google Glass and finds the new Oakley AI glasses troubling.
- He appreciates their improved design but worries they hide screens and distract users during activities like biking.