Future Scenarios of Smart Glasses for Visual Impaired Persons in Malaysia: A STEEPV-Based Foresight Study

Abstract

Visual impairment affects millions of people worldwide, yet the potential of smart glasses as an assistive technology remains largely unexplored in the Malaysian context. This study examines the future drivers and scenarios of smart glasses for persons with visual impairment in Malaysia, and assesses the technology readiness of potential users. Employing an exploratory research design, the study applied STEEPV (Social, Technological, Environmental, Economic, Political, and Values) analysis to identify key drivers, followed by impact-uncertainty analysis and scenario building. A descriptive questionnaire was distributed to 384 potential users or their caregivers in the Kuala Lumpur area, yielding 251 valid responses (response rate: 65.36%). From the STEEPV analysis, 10 key drivers were identified and ranked by mean impact and uncertainty scores. Two drivers emerged as having the highest combined impact and uncertainty: Social and Interpersonal Dynamics (impact mean = 4.67; uncertainty mean = 3.35) and Technological Evolution and Adoption (impact mean = 4.56; uncertainty mean = 3.26). These two drivers were used to construct four future scenarios over a 10- to 20-year horizon: (1) “Develop New Social Channels for Interaction,” (2) “Mismatch Between Technology and User Needs,” (3) “Privacy and Security Issues,” and (4) “Stagnation in Society and Technology.” Technology Readiness Index (TRI) analysis revealed an overall TRI score of 3.69 (High), with Innovativeness (mean = 4.33) and Optimism (mean = 4.14) as the dominant positive attributes. The most probable future scenario is the development of new social channels for interaction, driven by high technology adoption and positive user attitudes. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for smart glasses developers, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to promote inclusive assistive technology in Malaysia.