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European regulators weigh restrictions on smart glasses amid privacy concerns

European officials and cities are scrutinizing AI eyewear, according to France 24.

The short version

  • Oslo has prohibited smart glasses in schools, while Norway weighs broader usage regulations, according to France 24.[France 24]
  • EU lawmaker Alex Agius Saliba argued that the devices ought to be banned until safety is proven.[France 24]
  • Meta reported selling roughly seven million pairs in 2025 and claims to have measures deterring tampering with indicator lights.[France 24]
  • The European Data Protection Board is preparing an autumn report evaluating the technology's social acceptability.[France 24]

Key facts

  • Meta sold approximately seven million pairs of smart glasses during 2025.[France 24]
  • Oslo barred smart glasses from schools while Norway considers broader rules on public usage and facial recognition.[France 24]
  • Meta stated that it implemented multiple deterrents to prevent users from disabling the LED recording indicator.[France 24]
  • The European Data Protection Board commissioned a report examining the social acceptability of smart glasses, expected in autumn.[France 24]

What remains uncertain

  • Whether the European Union or national authorities will impose formal restrictions or outright bans following regulatory evaluations remains unconfirmed.[France 24]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.