The Norwegian government said it is planning an interim ban on artificial intelligence glasses in selected locations and will set up an expert group to advise on permanent, national regulation. Minister of Digitisation and Public Administration Torgeir Micaelsen expressed concern that new, powerful technology is being introduced where people risk being photographed, filmed or audio recorded without their knowledge.
The temporary ban on using AI glasses will apply to places regularly frequented by members of the public, such as parks, beaches, museums, shopping malls and public events. It could also include places and events for children, such as schools, nurseries, playgrounds and leisure clubs. It could also apply to places where privacy is particularly important, such as doctors’ surgeries and health and training facilities with changing rooms and showers. The government will also consider whether the ban should include universities, colleges and other educational institutions.
The government is not proposing a total ban on AI glasses and other wearable technology. Such technology should still be allowed to be used in certain places in addition to purely private use, for example if the wearer is traveling in places where they do not risk filming or photographing other people without their consent.
