Officials in Australia are weighing whether to keep camera-enabled smart glasses out of government workplaces as concerns rise about wearables that can record people without drawing attention.
Here's what to know
The Independent reported that Australia is reviewing whether to bar recording-capable smart glasses from government offices, citing privacy and security worries. At the same time, officials are preparing a roundtable with employers such as Microsoft, Commonwealth Bank, Telstra, and AGL to develop guidance for artificial intelligence use at work.
Katy Gallagher, Australia's minister for public service, asked the public service commission to provide formal advice on a potential ban covering government buildings.
"Smart glasses can raise legitimate privacy and security concerns, particularly because of their ability to record and capture information, and we need clear and consistent guidance for public servants," she said, per the newspaper.
The restriction would stand out because smart glasses are often marketed as convenient, hands-free tools. Critics, however, have warned that those same features can make it difficult for people to know when they are being filmed or photographed.
That uncertainty is especially troubling in government settings, where conversations may involve sensitive personal data, workplace discussions, or confidential public business.
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More background
Other places have already drawn lines around the technology. Oslo, Norway, banned smart glasses in schools, and courts in England and Wales have excluded Meta's version from their premises, according to The Independent.
Advocates for visually impaired people have supported the devices because they can help with navigation and everyday tasks. A ban therefore could raise concerns about accessibility and whether restrictions might make workplaces hard for disabled users to navigate.
What's being done?
Beyond seeking guidance on the public-sector restriction, the government is also bringing corporate leaders together to discuss AI rules in the workplace.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has presented the discussions as part of a wider obligation to keep public protections up to date as technology changes.
"I am proud that Australia is setting the world standard for digital safety," he said in a statement.
Citing The Information, The Independent said Meta could introduce smart glasses without a camera after criticism of its eyewear. That kind of design might calm privacy worries while still offering features users value.
Where can I learn more?
These articles look at privacy disputes involving Meta smart glasses and AI surveillance pricing.
• Meta faced backlash after Ray-Ban glasses identified strangers in real time.
• Workers said Meta's smart glasses recorded more than users expected, fueling privacy complaints.
• Pennsylvania lawmakers pushed a ban on surveillance pricing tied to AI-driven consumer data.
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