Stories
Norway Plans Temporary Restrictions on AI Glasses Over Privacy Concerns
- •Norway is preparing temporary restrictions on AI-enabled glasses that can capture images or sound without people knowing.
- •The proposed rules could apply in public spaces like parks, beaches, museums, and shopping centres, as well as sensitive areas like doctors offices and gyms.
- •Digitalisation and Public Governance Minister Torgeir Micaelsen expressed worry over the rapid introduction of powerful wearable technology.
- •The government is not considering a complete ban, and private use of the devices would remain permitted where consent is not an issue.
- •Officials are still determining how broadly the legislation will define the technology and plan to introduce a bill to parliament as soon as possible.
Key Questions Answered
Norway's government is preparing temporary restrictions on AI-enabled glasses that capture images or sound in public gathering spaces like parks, beaches, and museums, as well as sensitive areas such as doctors' offices, swimming pools, and schools. The measures aim to address growing privacy challenges posed by wearable technology capable of recording individuals without their knowledge.
No, the government has stated that a complete prohibition on the devices is not being considered. Private use will remain permitted, along with situations where other people do not face a meaningful risk of being recorded without their consent.
Alongside the proposed temporary rules, Norway's minority government intends to introduce a bill to parliament as soon as possible and establish an expert group. This expert group will advise on permanent national regulations for body-worn technology as part of a broader framework for emerging wearable devices.
