UK Venues Ban Meta Smart Glasses Over Privacy Concerns

A growing number of hospitality and entertainment venues across the United Kingdom have banned Meta Platforms Inc. smart glasses following reports of nonconsensual recording and harassment. JD Wetherspoon implemented an outright ban across its 800-plus pubs, with CEO Tim Martin stating the devices enable "surreptitious surveillance" and breach the code against filming without permission. Other establishments joining the ban include ATG Theatres, Soho House, Monopoly Events, and restaurants owned by Jeremy King.

The backlash intensified as critics labeled the devices "pervert glasses," citing their use in recording women and staff in public spaces. Police Scotland is currently investigating a TikToker for using the glasses to secretly film a Sikh shopkeeper and women. Domestic abuse charity Refuge also warned that the technology facilitates the surveillance of women and girls. In response to these concerns, Instagram head Adam Mosseri announced that the platform would remove content that harasses others.

Meta defended the technology, noting that the glasses feature a recording LED and tamper detection to disable the camera if the light is removed. The company argued that the devices provide critical assistance for people who are low-sighted or hard of hearing, claiming that limiting such technology would be a "major step backwards." Despite the controversy, Meta reported selling over 7 million pairs of the glasses in 2025.