Norway moves first on AI glasses

Norway's center-left government announced Monday it will introduce a law to parliament banning AI glasses in parks, beaches, schools, and kindergartens.

Privacy fears drive the ban

Digitalization minister Torgeir Micaelsen said he is concerned about people being photographed, filmed, or recorded without their knowledge by the wearable devices.

“I am concerned about the introduction of powerful new technology where people risk being photographed, filmed, or recorded without their knowledge.”

Time to assess and debate

The temporary ban will allow Norway to conduct a thorough assessment and hold an informed debate to lay the foundation for permanent national regulation of AI glasses.

“A temporary ban will give us time to conduct a thorough assessment and hold an informed debate that can lay the foundation for permanent regulation.”

Others already taking action

Schools in Oslo and oil and gas company Equinor have already banned AI glasses from their facilities. Australia is considering similar bans, and courtrooms in several countries have issued their own restrictions.

Tech giants see big potential

Meta, Google, and OpenAI believe AI glasses could replace mobile phones as the main gateway to artificial intelligence. Analysts estimate consumers will spend more than one trillion dollars on wearable devices between twenty twenty-six and twenty thirty-two.

Society without surveillance

Micaelsen said Norway does not want a society where people fear hidden recordings and filming in places where they expect privacy, as this causes people to feel unsafe and withdraw.

“We do not want a society where people are concerned about hidden audio recordings, photography, and filming in places and situations where they are used to being without being monitored.”