Norway’s government plans to propose a temporary ban on the use of AI-powered glasses in certain public places amid concerns that people could be photographed, filmed or recorded without their knowledge, according to a report by Reuters.
The proposed restrictions could apply to locations where large numbers of people regularly gather, including parks, beaches, museums, shopping centres and public events.
Schools, playgrounds and youth clubs could also be covered by the proposed ban, along with privacy-sensitive locations such as doctors’ offices, swimming pools and gyms with changing rooms.
Norway’s Digitalisation and Public Governance Minister Torgeir Micaelsen said the government was concerned about the rapid introduction of powerful new technology that could allow people to be photographed, filmed or audio-recorded without being aware of it.
However, the government is not seeking a complete ban on AI glasses. Private use and use in situations where other people are not at risk of being recorded without their consent would continue to be permitted.
According to Reuters, the government will also examine exactly which devices should be covered by the restrictions. This could include glasses equipped with cameras and audio-recording capabilities, AI-enabled camera glasses and potentially other body-worn technology featuring cameras, microphones or artificial intelligence functions.
The move comes amid growing international concerns over the privacy implications of smart glasses equipped with cameras and other recording technology.
Norway’s minority government intends to present legislation to Parliament as soon as possible. It will also establish an expert group to advise authorities on permanent national regulations governing body-worn technology. (Newswire/ Reuters)
The post Norway to propose temporary ban on AI glasses in some public places appeared first on Newswire.