Norway is considering introducing restrictions or a total ban on smart glasses and other head-worn devices equipped with cameras by September 2026. The Norwegian government is studying ways to regulate devices with built-in cameras, including products from Meta and Snap.
Digital Technology Minister Karianne Tung stated that the integration of AI with cameras and microphones in everyday items like glasses, headphones, and headwear creates risks of covert recording. Unlike smartphones, these wearable devices can record video and audio without the knowledge of people around them.
The authorities are particularly concerned about the potential for widespread use of facial recognition technology in public spaces. Future regulations may include a ban on using facial recognition to identify other people in public areas to protect privacy rights.
To prepare these changes, the Norwegian government plans to establish a group of experts to advise on protecting privacy in the age of rapidly evolving wearable technologies.
