UK Venues Ban Meta Smart Glasses Over Privacy Concerns
Restaurants, pubs and theatres prohibit Meta's AI-powered smart glasses, citing fears over covert recording of customers and staff.
A growing number of restaurants, pubs and theatres across the UK have banned Meta's AI-powered smart glasses over concerns that the devices could compromise the privacy of customers and employees.
Meta had promoted its smart glasses, priced at £359, with the help of celebrity Kylie Jenner, hoping they would gain mainstream acceptance similar to smartwatches and tablets. However, the rollout has faced resistance from hospitality and entertainment venues worried about their built-in camera and recording capabilities.
Among those opposing the devices is celebrated restaurateur Jeremy King, owner of renowned London establishments including Simpsons in the Strand, Arlington and The Park. King said guests should not wear the recording-enabled glasses inside his venues.
"I would never knowingly allow any invasion of guest privacy other than with the eyes we were born with," King told The Guardian.
The restrictions reflect growing concerns over wearable technology that can discreetly capture photos and videos, with venue operators arguing that patrons and staff should be protected from unauthorised recording.
The move comes as businesses increasingly review policies on emerging AI-enabled devices, balancing technological innovation with privacy rights. The bans also highlight the broader debate over the use of wearable cameras in public spaces, where concerns over surveillance and consent continue to grow.