Police officers in China have begun using the first batch of augmented reality (AR) glasses equipped with built-in artificial intelligence (AI). The device enables instant identification of citizens and vehicles, significantly increasing the efficiency of patrol operations.

The glasses can scan vehicle license plates at distances of up to 1,200 meters and recognize people’s faces from up to 30 meters away, cross-checking the data against wanted persons, driver’s license, and credit databases. The recognition and verification process takes only 1–2 seconds. Results are displayed directly in the officer’s field of vision via an AR display with color-coded markers: red for suspicious data and green for normal records.

During patrols, the glasses help officers quickly check drivers at checkpoints and determine whether a person appears in offender databases. The technology is based on neural networks, operates in all weather conditions (including at night and in the rain), and supports voice translation.

The deployment of these “smart” glasses demonstrates how AI is transforming law enforcement systems. At the same time, it raises serious concerns about the privacy of citizens who are scanned from a distance. Police plan to expand the use of the devices in major cities.

ORIENT