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Norway imposes temporary ban on AI glasses in public spaces

The Norwegian government is introducing a temporary ban on AI glasses in crowded public areas such as parks, schools, and shopping centers to address privacy concerns.

5 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Norway imposes temporary ban on AI glasses in public spaces — Archive photoPhoto: Klaas `Z4us` van B. V · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

The Norwegian government has announced a proposal for a temporary ban on the use of AI glasses, including camera glasses, in certain crowded public spaces. This ban aims to facilitate research and foster a proper debate on the regulations surrounding this technology, which raises privacy concerns.

Minister of Digitalization and Public Administration, Torgeir Micaelsen, stated that the ban provides time for thorough investigation into the impact of AI glasses. He expressed concern about the possibility that individuals could be photographed or filmed without their knowledge using these devices.

The proposed ban would be effective in parks, beaches, museums, schools, daycare centers, and health institutions, as well as other privacy-sensitive locations. This decision is a response to growing concerns about the ethical and privacy aspects of AI technologies, particularly following reports of unauthorized filming.

According to reports from Reuters and other media, there are assurances that the use of AI glasses in private situations, as well as filming with consent, will still be permitted. The aim, however, is to temporarily restrict usage in public spaces while the government develops further guidelines.

This move comes as other countries, such as the United Kingdom and the United States, have already imposed similar restrictions on camera glasses due to concerns over covert recordings. Norway is now regarded as a pioneer in addressing these new technologies with a legal framework.

The government hopes that this temporary ban will lead to a constructive discussion on possible permanent regulations, ensuring that individual rights are protected while technological advancement continues.

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