Norway smart glasses privacy and regulation debate

Norway is addressing privacy and security concerns regarding wearable technology, specifically smart glasses equipped with artificial intelligence, cameras, and microphones.

In late August, Digitalization Minister Karianne Tung proposed potential regulations, including a ban on facial recognition features that allow for the identification of individuals in public without their knowledge. The government intends to form an expert group to advise on regulating devices like smart glasses and earbuds, following warnings from the Norwegian Consumer Council and the Data Protection Authority regarding covert filming and personal data collection.

By late September, the private sector and public institutions began taking independent action. DNB, Norway’s largest bank, implemented an internal ban on AI-powered smart glasses across all offices and branches, citing risks to confidential information and workplace privacy. Similarly, the Indre Østfold municipality established guidelines prohibiting the use of smart glasses and other body-worn devices with cameras or AI functionality during working hours to protect students, patients, and employees.

Further caution has been extended by the Church Council (Kirkerådet), which advised employees and volunteers against using AI glasses with recording capabilities while performing duties. Concurrently, the labor union Tekna has called for a temporary halt on the sale of Meta-branded smart glasses while government investigations continue.