JD Wetherspoon bans smart glasses across UK pubs over privacy concerns

UK pub chain JD Wetherspoon has implemented a ban on Meta smart glasses and other wearable camera devices across its more than 800 locations. The decision aims to protect the privacy of customers and staff from surreptitious recording and surveillance.

While Meta has noted that its glasses include an indicator light to signal recording, Wetherspoon management stated the devices breach the general code of conduct regarding filming without permission. This move follows broader resistance to smart glasses in various UK hospitality venues, including theaters and restaurants.

Simultaneously, JD Wetherspoon issued a profit warning, noting that full-year profits are expected to fall below market expectations due to rising costs in food, labor, energy, and business rates. Despite this, the company continues its expansion, with plans to open several new pubs across the UK and internationally before the end of the year.

In other markets, the rise of affordable smart glasses is fueling privacy debates. In Australia, low-cost models from Kmart have seen high demand, while in Portugal, Ray-Ban Meta glasses have become available through official retailers, prompting discussions regarding GDPR compliance and the necessity of recording indicators.