Norway is planning to introduce a temporary ban on the use of AI-powered smart glasses in some public places, amid growing concerns that the devices could be used to record people without their knowledge.
The Norwegian government announced the plan on Monday, October 5, 2026, saying that smart glasses with cameras and artificial intelligence could create new challenges for people’s privacy.
The proposed restrictions could apply to places such as public parks, recreational areas near water, museums, shopping centers and public events where many people gather.
Norway’s Minister responsible for Digitalization, Torgeir Micaelsen, said the government is concerned about the growing use of technology that can secretly capture images and sound.
He said people could be photographed, recorded on video or have their conversations captured without knowing that they are being recorded.
The proposed rules could also cover schools, children’s playgrounds and places where young people meet.
More private areas could also be included, such as doctors’ waiting rooms, swimming pool areas and changing rooms at sports facilities. These are places where people have a stronger expectation of privacy.
However, the government says it does not plan to ban smart glasses completely. People would still be allowed to use them privately and in places where there is little risk of recording other people without their consent.
Before the law is introduced, the government plans to determine exactly which types of devices should be covered. This could include glasses with cameras and audio recording functions, smart glasses that combine cameras with AI, or other wearable technology capable of recording people.
Norway says it will present the proposed law as soon as possible. It also plans to create a group of experts to advise the government on permanent national rules for wearable technology.
The debate comes as smart glasses are becoming more advanced and more common. While they can be useful for communication, entertainment and accessing information, their ability to record people quietly is raising questions about how privacy should be protected in public spaces.
Brenna AKARABO
RADIOTV10