Europe moves to curb hidden cameras on wearables.
The European Commission released a draft proposal that would require smart‑glass manufacturers to include a visible recording indicator and give users a clear way to disable the camera. The rules also aim to ban the sale of devices that can stream video without the wearer’s consent. Lawmakers plan to debate the measure in the coming months, with a target implementation date in 2027.
If adopted, the legislation could force companies like Ray‑Ban and Meta to redesign products that currently market a hands‑free experience. Privacy advocates see it as a needed check on technology that can record bystanders unnoticed. Critics argue it may stifle innovation and place unnecessary burdens on developers.
Either way, the EU is signaling that stealth recording is no longer acceptable, a stance that could ripple into other markets that follow European standards.