Key facts
- Governments are considering restrictions on smart glasses due to privacy concerns.
- Australia is considering barring smart glasses in government workplaces.
- Britain's courts and cinema operators have restricted Meta smart glasses.
- Norway plans a temporary ban on AI glasses in public spaces.
- New York banned smart glasses from all court facilities.
Governments, courts, and companies are examining rules and considering restrictions on smart glasses amid concerns that the technology could be used to photograph, film, or audio-record individuals or confidential materials without their knowledge. Meta's smart glasses have brought the technology into the mainstream.
In Australia, the federal government is considering a ban on camera-equipped smart glasses in government workplaces due to privacy and security concerns. Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher has sought advice on potential prohibitions and necessary exemptions.
In Britain, courts in England and Wales have prohibited the use of Meta smart glasses, citing restrictions on image and video capture within courtrooms. The UK Cinema Association also stated in August that British cinema operators are implementing policies to restrict or ban camera-enabled smart glasses.