Norway plans temporary restrictions on AI glasses in selected places

The government says the temporary measure would prohibit using AI glasses in selected locations.[2] It has emphasized that the proposal is not a total ban on AI glasses or other wearable technology.[2] Private use, and use in circumstances where other people are not at risk of being filmed without consent, would remain permitted, according to Reuters.[1] The distinction matters for organizations considering whether to allow wearable devices: the plan is location- and use-dependent, and the government has yet to determine the measure’s precise scope.[2][1] The proposal is framed around reducing the risk of people being recorded without their knowledge.[1]

Potential locations include parks, beaches, museums, shopping centers and public events—places where the public regularly gathers.[1] The government is also considering including schools, day-care centers and other places children frequent, citing children’s entitlement to particular protection.[2] Universities, colleges and other educational institutions are also within the government’s consideration, but the statement does not say they will definitely be covered.[2] Reuters reported that doctors’ offices, swimming pools and gyms with changing rooms are among the privacy-sensitive locations being considered.[1] The final list has not been announced.[1][2]

Norway says it will study which technologies should fall within the ban, including camera-equipped glasses, AI-enabled glasses and other wearable devices.[1] The government says it will allow exceptions for vulnerable groups and limited cases of socially beneficial use.[2] The announcement does not specify which groups or uses would qualify, or how an exception would work in practice.[2] Organizations should therefore treat the stated scope and exceptions as proposals under consideration rather than settled requirements.[1][2]

The government said it would bring a bill to parliament as soon as possible, while allowing time for thorough review and informed debate.[1][2] It also plans to establish an expert group to advise on permanent national regulation of wearable technology.[2] The government’s stated concern is that people may feel unsafe or withdraw from places if they fear hidden recordings in situations where they expect not to be monitored.[2] Reuters described the proposal as part of a broader global backlash against camera-equipped smart glasses over privacy concerns.[1] The announcement does not provide a date for the bill or a final timeline for permanent rules.[2][1]