Norway is weighing restrictions on smart glasses and other wearable devices equipped with cameras as authorities seek to address growing privacy concerns surrounding the technology.
Digital Minister Karianne Tung said the government is examining possible regulations for camera-enabled wearables produced by companies such as Meta and Snap, according to the AFP news agency.
The devices, which can connect to the internet and record images and sound, have attracted concern from civil liberties advocates. The technology could also incorporate facial recognition, raising further questions about the ability to identify and monitor people without their consent.
Some critics have gone as far as referring to the devices as “pervert glasses”, reflecting the backlash over their potential use in public spaces.
Tung said technological developments were making it increasingly important for authorities to establish safeguards around the use of cameras and microphones embedded in everyday items.
“There is a clear trend toward combining artificial intelligence with cameras and microphones built into glasses, headphones, hats and other objects we use in everyday life,” Tung said.
She stressed that regulations would be aimed at preventing people from being recorded or monitored without appropriate safeguards.
“We must prevent this equipment from being used to monitor other people in public places,” said Tung, who added that this may include banning the use of facial recognition of other people in public places.
As part of the government’s efforts, Tung plans to establish an expert group to advise authorities on measures that could strengthen privacy protections.
The proposed review comes as wearable technology continues to develop, with manufacturers increasingly integrating artificial intelligence, cameras, microphones and internet connectivity into devices designed for everyday use.
