Norway Eyes Smart Glasses Ban Amid Privacy Fears

Norway is contemplating a temporary prohibition on the use of smart glasses in public areas, including parks, beaches, and shopping centers, as global worries about AI-enabled recording devices escalate. The Oslo government is drafting a bill to restrict these camera-equipped spectacles, aiming to protect individuals from covert recording.

This move follows existing bans and restrictions in the UK and US, where courtrooms, pubs, and cinemas have limited their use due to privacy fears. Norway's minister of digital affairs expressed concern over powerful new technology enabling unexpected filming or audio recording.

Meta's smart glasses, which allow for filming, photography, and AI prompts, have seen significant sales. While the company states a white LED light indicates recording, privacy advocates and businesses remain vigilant. France has reported incidents of women being filmed unknowingly with these devices.