Oslo has banned smart glasses across schools in the Norwegian capital, citing concerns over filming, privacy and data collection.
The restriction applies throughout the entire school day and covers all levels of education.
City Raises Concerns Over Hidden Recording
Oslo Vice Mayor for Education Julie Remen Midtgarden said the city needed to act because smart glasses make it difficult for people to know when they are being recorded.
She argued that children should not become “extras in Meta’s data collection” and said the municipality was unwilling to wait for national regulations before taking action.
Midtgarden also criticized Norway’s national government for creating an expert group to study possible regulation of smart glasses and facial recognition rather than introducing immediate rules.
She said the devices were already being sold and used in Norwegian schoolyards.
What Smart Glasses Can Do
Smart glasses can allow users to take photos and videos, listen to music, make calls, and translate signs.
Some models can also display text or maps in the wearer’s field of view and provide access to integrated AI assistants.
Meta has also reportedly developed a facial recognition feature that could be integrated into its smart glasses.
These capabilities have increased concerns about surveillance and consent, particularly in environments involving children.
Ban Already in Effect
The ban in Oslo schools officially took effect on August 27.
However, the announcement was delayed until Thursday because Norwegian political parties had agreed to a temporary political truce following the death of King Harald V on August 28.
Oslo’s move puts the city ahead of any nationwide rules while Norway continues considering broader regulation of smart glasses and facial recognition technology.
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