UK cinemas restrict Meta AI smart glasses over piracy concerns

British cinema operators are introducing measures to ban or limit the use of camera-equipped smart glasses, including Meta’s AI-powered eyewear, citing concerns over privacy and film piracy, the UK Cinema Association has said.

The move comes amid growing scrutiny of smart glasses because of their ability to record images and video, Caliber.Az reports, citing Reuters.

Earlier this month, courts in England and Wales barred the use of Meta smart glasses due to restrictions on photographing and recording proceedings.

Rules differ between cinema operators, with individual venues introducing their own bans or restrictions rather than adopting a single industry-wide policy.

The UK Cinema Association said operators recognise that smart glasses can offer benefits to people with specific accessibility needs.

The association made clear that it would continue working with its members to ensure their approach “remains relevant and proportionate.”

Meanwhile, a German advocacy group stated earlier this month that it had filed a criminal complaint against Meta and others involved in selling the devices, alleging violations of privacy laws.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov