Norway seeks temporary ban on smart glasses amid privacy concerns

Norway's government plans to introduce a temporary ban on smart glasses in certain public spaces due to privacy concerns. The push comes as technology giants like Meta market these devices, raising ethical issues. Norway aims to restrict the usage of smart glasses in parks, beaches, museums, shopping centers, schools, daycare centers, healthcare facilities, gyms, and public events.

The Labour Party, which holds a minority government, intends to pass the proposed ban soon after submitting a bill. An expert group will also draft permanent regulations on the matter. Minister Torgeir Micaelsen emphasized that the goal is to prevent people from being recorded, photographed, or filmed without their consent, especially in places where they expect privacy.

The government clarified it does not seek a complete ban on smart glasses. Meanwhile, smart glasses, particularly those marketed by Meta under brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley, have sparked growing concern across Europe. The UK and US have already implemented restrictions on their use in specific settings. France has received numerous reports of women being filmed without consent using Meta glasses, leading to social mockery and an investigation by the Paris public prosecutor.

Oslo, Norway's capital, has already banned camera-equipped smart glasses in schools. Calls for stricter regulation on smart glasses have emerged across the European Union and the UK. Meta defends its devices, stating they are equipped with a flashing LED light when photos or videos are taken, and the camera cannot be turned off without disabling the entire camera functionality.