Wetherspoons, the UK pub chain, has introduced a ban on smart glasses in its establishments, citing concerns over customers covertly filming staff and other patrons. The policy, reported by The Register, applies to all of its pubs across the UK and Ireland.
The company confirmed that the decision was made to protect the privacy of both employees and customers. Smart glasses, such as those equipped with cameras and recording capabilities, have raised privacy concerns in various public venues.
Wetherspoons has not specified how the ban will be enforced, but staff have been instructed to ask customers to remove the devices if they are seen wearing them. The move follows similar actions by other businesses and venues to address the growing use of wearable recording technology.
This policy comes amid broader debates about surveillance and privacy in public spaces, with technology advancing faster than regulations. Wetherspoons' decision reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding customer and staff privacy.