Several countries are studying Ban smart glasses Because of the risk that they might record other people or capture confidential information without them noticing. Its use is already banned in certain places, while other restrictions are being considered in different countries.
Restrictions on public spaces and courts
Norway committed to submit a bill by October 5, 2026 Smart glasses are temporarily banned in public spaces. These considerations include parks, beaches, museums, shopping centers and sporting events.
The government is also considering including Proposed regulations for schools and hospitals. The declaration does not amount to an effective national ban: its use was banned in Oslo schools in August 2026.
In In Australia, the federal government is gathering feedbackAbout limiting the use of camera glasses in their workplace. In September, Civil Service Minister Katy Gallagher asked the Civil Service Commission for advice on possible restrictions and exemptions on these centres. Meta glass is banned in England and Wales In court over the ban on taking pictures and recording videos at those venues.
in Great Britain cinema The use of smart glasses with cameras has begun to be restricted, industry association UK Cinema Association said in a statement. The agency said on August 20 that concerns about privacy and piracy had led many cinema operators to ban glasses or at least limit the use of camera glasses. This entity explains that smart glasses can help people with accessibility needs.
he New York Unified Court System Banned access to its facilities with smart glasses from July 20, 2026 This restriction also applies to prescription glasses capable of recording sound or video Visitors must surrender to staff before entering. The court notice requested those who wear corrective glasses to bring alternative glasses.
There is also a commission for this Report on the social acceptance of smart glasses in the EU and requests MEP Veronika Cifrová Ostrihoňová To consider Europe.
Responsibilities of software and whoever records
Warnings against unwanted recordings have already led to stronger recording warnings On its page explaining its functions, Meta explains that it disables the camera when it detects that the LED that indicates recording is covered, from the second generation of specs, and it announced improvements to detect its manipulation or destruction. This feature applies to capturing photos and videos to save in the gallery.
In Australia the regulation of glasses extends to software. On October 7, the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) opened a formal investigation into Shenzhen Qingcheng, the maker of an app that works with economic models.
Name of the app hey saiyanAnd Kmart’s Anko is an example of low-cost smart glasses that use it. According to the regulator, OAIC asked Qingcheng to explain how they can record, who can access the recorded information and where it can be stored. Qingcheng did not respond to that initial question. Mere initiation of investigation does not prove any irregularity.
he European Data Protection Committee Published a statement on Smart Glasses on October 13, 2026 The Committee explained that using Spectacles to post photos to a public account or for professional purposes may render one liable for data processing in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
The application of the GDPR can be waived if a couple records their spouse or their child, as long as it is a Strictly personal or private use. The Committee noted at the same time that other laws, both civil and criminal, or labor standards may apply. The committee also recalled that those who create or provide services, while acting as data controllers, will be subject to the aforementioned obligations and cannot transfer them to their users.
Providing notices that clearly indicate that recording is taking place is encouraged. Although the device can be used in one place, publicly disseminating the recorded material or using the glasses for work may also trigger data protection obligations.
Picture | Including Xiaomi and RayBan versions
