Norway proposes ban on AI eyewear in public spaces to prevent clandestine recording

Norway Targets AI Eyewear in Landmark Public Ban

“We are worried about citizens being filmed, photographed, or recorded without their knowledge or consent,” stated Torgeir Micaelsen.

Norway is moving to become the first country to ban AI glasses in public spaces because officials worry about clandestine recording devices. Torgeir Micaelsen, the Norwegian Minister for Digitalisation and Public Administration, stated that the government is worried about citizens being filmed, photographed, or recorded without their knowledge or consent.

Targeting High-Traffic Zones and Sensitive Facilities

The proposed restrictions target high-traffic public zones where large numbers of people gather. These areas include shopping centers, museums, public events, beaches, and parks.

The measures could also extend to educational facilities such as schools, playgrounds, and youth centers, alongside privacy-sensitive environments like medical clinics, gyms, and swimming pool changing rooms.

Wearable Tech Poses Unseen Surveillance Threats

The regulatory push responds to the rapid commercialization of wearable smart devices equipped with integrated cameras and microphones. NOS reported that these AI-powered glasses resemble standard eyewear while housing recording technology and digital assistants.

Minister Micaelsen noted that an environment where people fear unconsented surveillance can feel unsafe and cause individuals to withdraw from public life.

Parliamentary Bill Nears Amid Scope Debates

Government officials are currently determining the precise legal scope of the impending legislation. Authorities must decide whether the ban will apply exclusively to camera-and-microphone units, devices featuring onboard artificial intelligence processing, or a broader category of body-worn recording tech.

The minority administration intends to formally submit a bill to parliament soon, backed by a specially appointed expert panel tasked with shaping long-term national regulations for body-worn tech.

Exceptions Outlined for Personal Use and Accessibility

Despite the geographic and situational curbs, the government clarified that the rules will not amount to a blanket national ban. NOS noted that personal use remains permitted where privacy is not infringed, and exceptions may be made for vulnerable demographics, such as blind and visually impaired individuals.