HM Courts & Tribunals Service has prohibited Meta smart glasses from all court buildings in England and Wales [1].
The move signals a growing tension between wearable camera technology and the legal right to privacy in sensitive public and judicial spaces.
Authorities announced the ban on Aug. 11, 2026 [1]. The restriction applies to all court buildings within the jurisdiction of England and Wales to address security and privacy risks [1]. Officials said the nature of always-on wearable cameras could allow for recording without the consent of those present [3].
Beyond the judiciary, the prohibition is extending into the private sector. A number of bars, restaurants, and theatres across the United Kingdom are also banning the devices [2]. These venues are implementing their own policies to prevent unauthorized filming of patrons and performances [2].
Some officials have described the devices as potential "pervert glasses" due to their ability to capture discreet footage [3, 4]. This terminology highlights the perceived threat of non-consensual recording in spaces where individuals expect a degree of anonymity or privacy [4].
While the ban is currently codified in the courts of England and Wales, there are ongoing discussions regarding whether similar restrictions should be applied more broadly across the entire United Kingdom [4]. Meta has not yet issued a formal response to the widespread venue bans.
“Meta smart glasses have been prohibited from entry into court buildings.”
The prohibition of smart glasses in judicial and social settings reflects a regulatory struggle to keep pace with wearable AI hardware. By classifying these devices as security risks rather than simple accessories, the UK is establishing a precedent that prioritizes the 'expectation of privacy' over the convenience of hands-free recording. This may lead to a broader patchwork of private-sector bans as more businesses seek to protect their clients and intellectual property from discreet digital capture.
