Smart glasses face bans in Australia and Canada over privacy concerns

Various institutions in Australia and Canada are implementing bans on smart glasses due to privacy and safety concerns regarding covert recording.

In New South Wales, Yass Valley Council Mayor Jasmin Jones has called for a ban on smart glasses within council facilities, including an immediate restriction at the Yass and Binalong swimming pools. The move aims to protect community privacy, particularly for teenagers, from unauthorized video or photo recording. The council is looking to develop a broader policy regarding the use of such devices and other covert recording tools on its properties, though potential exemptions for accessibility may be considered.

In Toronto, the dance venue The Wiggle Room has also adopted a ban on smart glasses. Owner Takin Nateghi cited the “sneaky” nature of cameras that are not easily noticed by others as a primary safety concern. While traditional photography with phones is permitted if it is not hidden, the venue seeks to maintain a level of privacy and community trust that is often expected in nightlife settings.