Sub-second: Runner captures road footage with smart glasses

It takes less than a second to start recording video on Meta smart glasses, a speed that has turned the eyewear into a personal safety tool for one runner.

Nick, a writer for 9to5Google, began running this summer after years of avoiding the activity. They frequently cross roads where drivers may not yield, even at crosswalks. Nick described speeding up to avoid being hit by a car as a recurring concern. This habit prompted a search for a way to document these interactions without slowing down or holding a phone.

The solution came from gear Nick was already wearing. They use Meta glasses during runs to capture clips for the fitness app Strava, which includes health stats from a smartwatch. The device allows Nick to hold a button to start recording when a vehicle approaches and press it again to stop after crossing. The camera captures footage in three-minute segments, ensuring that short incidents are fully logged before the file ends. The video remains on the glasses until they reconnect to a phone, at which point the files sync automatically.

Nick described the setup as a form of personal insurance. They noted that if something goes wrong on the road, the footage provides immediate proof. The writer said the process is about as effortless as it gets because the glasses are already part of the routine. Nick wears a Meta Nova pair and an Oakley Meta HSTN pair on regular runs, meaning no major changes to their gear were required.

For those considering the purchase, Nick offered specific advice based on fit and budget. They recommended the Oakley Meta HSTN glasses for runners who want a tight fit and a sporty look. For a lower cost, Nick suggested the standard Meta-branded pairs, stating there is no functional difference between the latest models. For users who want to avoid the Meta ecosystem entirely, Nick identified Rokid AI Glasses as the best alternative they have used.

Nick acknowledged that some people criticize the inclusion of cameras in smart glasses. However, they argued that the benefits of having a ready-to-use camera outweigh the negatives. If buying a new pair today, Nick said they would be unlikely to choose a model without a camera.