The Norwegian government is evaluating potential regulations for smart glasses and other wearable headsets due to privacy concerns regarding integrated cameras and artificial intelligence.
Key facts
- •Digital Minister Karianne Tung stated the government is looking to regulate wearables made by companies including Meta and Snap.
- •The devices in question feature cameras, internet connectivity, and the potential for future facial recognition capabilities.
- •Minister Tung aims to prevent the use of such equipment for monitoring people in public places.
- •The government plans to form an expert group to provide advice on protecting privacy rights.
Norway is exploring a potential ban on camera-enabled wearable headsets, including smart glasses produced by companies such as Meta and Snap. Digital Minister Karianne Tung stated that the government aims to address privacy risks associated with devices that feature internet connectivity, microphones, and cameras.
Privacy Concerns and Regulation
The government's focus stems from the integration of artificial intelligence with wearable technology, which has raised concerns among civil liberties advocates. Some critics have labeled the devices "pervert glasses" due to the potential for unauthorized monitoring of individuals in public spaces. Minister Tung emphasized the need to prevent these devices from being used to monitor people in public. Potential regulatory measures under consideration include a ban on the use of facial recognition technology on others in public areas.
Next Steps for the Government
To address these issues, Minister Tung plans to establish a group of experts. This committee will be tasked with advising the government on strategies to better protect privacy rights in the context of emerging wearable technologies.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by TechCrunch.
