UK cinemas look at banning Meta smart glasses over piracy fears

The UK Cinema Association (UKCA) has heard concerns from local chains about banning customers from wearing Meta's smart glasses due to potential film piracy. The glasses, costing £359, have been dubbed "pervert glasses" and "spyware" by critics. The UKCA is aware of the growing availability and use of wearable technology like smart glasses, which can benefit people with accessibility issues by providing bespoke subtitles.

However, the trade body is also mindful of privacy and film piracy issues. Meta has implemented a tiny LED light and tamper-detection technology in the glasses to prevent filming without consent. Some large chains, like ATG Theatres, have already banned filming altogether. Wetherspoons, a pub chain, stated that Meta glasses violate the code of not filming without permission.

Meanwhile, Meta argues that their glasses provide helpful technology for people with visual impairments and low-vision, and that banning their use would be a step backward.