Norway is now the first major country to suggest a temporary ban on artificial intelligence glasses in specific public spaces. The center-left government announced on Monday that it plans to introduce a law to parliament soon. This legislation targets locations like parks, beaches, schools, and kindergartens.
Norway wants time to write permanent rules
Digitalization Minister Torgeir Micaelsen stated that he worries about powerful new technology recording individuals without their knowledge. The temporary ban aims to provide time for a thorough assessment and an informed debate. This process will help establish the foundation for permanent national regulations.
Wearable devices from companies like Meta and cheaper copycat gadgets have sparked global regulatory challenges. Critics worry about people being filmed without consent, including children and women in changing rooms. Some campaigners have even labeled the devices as pervert technology.
Several segments of Norwegian society have already implemented their own restrictions. Schools in Oslo and Equinor, the nation's largest oil and gas company, have banned the glasses from their offices and offshore facilities. Meanwhile, Australia is also considering smart glasses bans in certain public spaces.
Governments globalize wearable regulations
Courtrooms across multiple countries have similarly prohibited the use of wearable technology. However, Norway clarified that it does not want a total ban on the devices. Appropriate use will still be permitted in areas where there is no risk of recording people without consent.
Micaelsen emphasized that the proposed legislation remains a high priority for the administration. A draft law will be presented to parliament shortly. Officials want to prevent a society where citizens feel unsafe from hidden audio recordings and filming in everyday situations.
Read nextSouth Korea Investigates Major Bank Breaches Amid Suspended AI AttacksUS tech giants like Meta, Google, and OpenAI view wearable technology as a potential replacement for mobile phones. They argue that speaking directly to an AI assistant is easier than typing queries into an app. Counterpoint Research analysts estimate that consumers will spend over $1 trillion on wearables between 2026 and 2032.
Parliament will review the proposed law
The digitalization ministry will submit the draft law to parliament for formal review. The government will simultaneously establish an expert group to draft permanent national rules.
