Norway considers banning facial recognition in smart glasses

Norway is considering stricter regulations for smart glasses and similar wearable devices to protect public privacy. Digitalization Minister Karianne Tung has proposed a potential ban on facial recognition features that allow the identification of individuals in public spaces without their knowledge.

The government plans to establish an expert group to advise on how to regulate technologies that integrate artificial intelligence with cameras and microphones in everyday items like glasses, earbuds, and hats. This move follows concerns from the Norwegian Consumer Council and the Data Protection Authority regarding covert filming and the collection of personal data.

Finn Lützow-Holm Myrstad of the Norwegian Consumer Council has called on retailers to suspend the sale of such devices until legal clarity is established. While the proposed ban targets facial recognition specifically, experts warn that prohibiting the feature may not entirely prevent the risks associated with covert recording.