Smart glasses ban hurt people who are blind or have low vision.

For most people, smart glasses are an interesting new piece of technology. But for people who are blind or have low vision, they can be much more than a gadget. They can provide greater independence and make everyday tasks easier to navigate.

Guide Dogs Clients are already using smart glasses in practical ways, from reading medication labels and identifying bus stops.

The technology can also make it easier to connect with others for help. By using video calling features, a person can share what is in front of them with someone who can provide guidance remotely.

Privacy concerns are important, but so is accessibility.

As smart glasses become more common, concerns have understandably been raised about privacy and the ability to film or photograph people without their knowledge.

People have a right to privacy and should have control over how images of them are captured and used.

But addressing those concerns should not mean creating new barriers for people with disability who use smart glasses as assistive technology.

Some venues and councils have considered restrictions on smart glasses, with approaches differing between locations. While exemptions may sometimes exist for people with disability, requiring someone to seek permission to use assistive technology can still create an unnecessary barrier.

Privacy and accessibility can exist together.

Emerging technologies are often discussed as though privacy, safety and accessibility are competing priorities.

They don’t have to be.

Good technology policy should protect people’s privacy while recognising that the same technology can provide genuine benefits for people with disability.

For someone who is blind or has low vision, smart glasses can help provide access to visual information that might otherwise be difficult or impossible to obtain independently.

That can mean greater choice, confidence and independence when moving through the world.

Blanket bans aren't the answer.

Rules designed to prevent misuse should focus on harmful behaviour rather than automatically restricting access to the technology itself.

We don't ban smartphones because some people use them inappropriately. Instead, we create rules around unacceptable behaviour and how technology can be used.

Smart glasses should be treated in much the same way.

Councils, venues and other organisations considering restrictions should ensure people who use smart glasses as assistive technology aren't unintentionally excluded.

People with a disability should also be involved in developing these policies, helping to create approaches that protect privacy without removing access to valuable accessibility features.

We need better rules, not fewer opportunities.

As technology continues to develop, questions about privacy, accessibility and appropriate use will continue to emerge.

The answer shouldn't be blanket bans.

Instead, we need thoughtful rules that address genuine privacy concerns while recognising the important role technology can play in improving independence and accessibility.

Smart glasses are an early example of this challenge, but they certainly won't be the last.