TL;DR
Courts in England and Wales have officially banned Meta glasses, confiscating them from anyone entering judicial buildings. The move follows similar bans in New York and concerns over privacy and surreptitious recording.
Courts in England and Wales have banned Meta glasses, making it clear that anyone entering judicial buildings will have their devices confiscated. This decision is part of a broader backlash against the devices, which can record video footage while being worn, amid concerns over privacy and security. The ban aligns with recent measures in New York and other public venues, reflecting growing scrutiny of smart glasses in sensitive spaces.
The His Majesty’s Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) confirmed that Meta glasses will be confiscated from anyone entering courts in England and Wales. A spokesperson told the Guardian that “there are clear restrictions on taking images or videos within courts and tribunals,” which is why the use of Meta glasses is now prohibited. Unlike smartphones, which are allowed under strict conditions, no exceptions will be made for smart glasses, and confiscated devices will be returned upon exit.
Earlier this year, a high-profile incident occurred when a claimant was accused of wearing smart glasses during a court hearing and receiving “coaching” through them. The judge ordered the glasses to be removed, citing concerns about potential assistance during testimony. HMCTS does not currently hold data on the number of incidents involving smart glasses in courts, but the issue has attracted significant attention.
In the United States, courts in New York introduced a ban on smart glasses, citing the risk of surreptitious recording. The New York court system mandated that such devices be kept in safekeeping while in court facilities. The controversy has been fueled by fears over privacy violations, especially regarding the potential for covert filming without consent.
Breaking policy update · August 2026
Meta Glasses Banned From Courts in England and Wales
Anyone entering a court or tribunal with Meta smart glasses can now have the device confiscated until departure. The restriction responds to concerns about covert recording, privacy, security and outside assistance during testimony.
What changes at the courthouse door
Devices taken on entry
HM Courts & Tribunals Service says users bringing Meta glasses into court or tribunal buildings will have them held by staff.
Returned on departure
The policy is a temporary confiscation measure. Owners receive their glasses back when they leave the judicial building.
Recording risk removed
Wearable cameras can capture footage discreetly, potentially exposing witnesses, jurors, evidence or protected proceedings.
Arrive at court
Glasses identified
Device secured
Proceedings protected
Device returned
Privacy meets the integrity of testimony
There are clear restrictions on taking images or videos within courts and tribunals, which is why the use of Meta glasses is prohibited.
HMCTS spokesperson · reported by The Guardian
A wearable camera is treated differently
| Device or action | Entry status | Recording status | Practical treatment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meta smart glasses | ✗ Not permitted | ✗ Prohibited | Held on entry, returned on exit |
| Smartphone | ✓ Generally permitted | ✗ No unauthorised recording | Subject to court directions |
| Other camera wearables | ~ Scope developing | ✗ Recording restricted | May face similar controls |
| Authorised court equipment | ~ Permission required | ~ Controlled use | Governed by specific approval |
Policy pressure points
Part of a broader backlash against smart glasses
Can smartphones still enter UK courts?
Generally, yes. Their use remains controlled, and recording court proceedings without permission is prohibited.
Why are Meta glasses considered risky?
Their wearable camera can record discreetly, raising concerns about filming people or sensitive proceedings without consent.
Could violations carry penalties?
Specific penalties have not been fully detailed. Unauthorised recording may expose a person to contempt-of-court consequences.
Are all wearable devices banned?
The confirmed policy targets Meta glasses. Restrictions may expand as courts assess other camera-equipped or connected wearables.
International alignment
New York courts have also required smart glasses to be placed in safekeeping inside court facilities.
Public-space restrictions
Restaurants, theatres and pubs have introduced their own controls amid concerns about filming without consent.
What comes next
Expect further guidance, closer scrutiny and pressure on manufacturers to strengthen visible privacy safeguards.
Implications for Privacy and Court Security
The ban on Meta glasses in UK courts underscores increasing concerns about privacy violations and security breaches through wearable technology. As these devices can record discreetly, authorities are taking steps to prevent surreptitious filming, which could compromise fair proceedings or violate individuals’ rights. The move reflects a broader societal debate about balancing technological innovation with privacy protections in sensitive environments.
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Growing Restrictions on Smart Glasses in Public Spaces
Meta’s smart glasses, which sold 7 million units last year, have faced mounting criticism over privacy issues, earning the nickname “pervert glasses” due to fears of covert recording, especially of women. Several UK venues, including restaurants, theatres, and pubs such as Wetherspoons, have already banned the devices. The controversy intensified after a high-profile incident in California where security personnel wearing Meta glasses were observed during a court trial, raising concerns about the potential misuse of wearable tech in legal settings.
While Meta states that the glasses have tamper detection technology and visible recording lights, critics argue that covert recording remains possible. The device’s ability to record video discreetly has prompted legal and societal debates about appropriate use and regulation.
“There are clear restrictions on taking images or videos within courts and tribunals which is why the use of Meta glasses is prohibited.”
— a spokesperson for HMCTS
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Unclear Scope and Future Enforcement of the Ban
It is not yet confirmed how many individuals have been caught attempting to bring Meta glasses into courts or how strictly the ban will be enforced over time. Details about potential legal consequences for violations are also not fully clarified. Additionally, the extent to which other wearable devices will face similar restrictions remains uncertain.
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Next Steps for Policy and Public Awareness
Authorities are expected to monitor compliance with the ban and may issue further guidance or penalties for violations. Legal experts anticipate ongoing discussions about regulating wearable technology in public and legal spaces. Meta and other tech companies may face increased scrutiny or calls for design modifications to address privacy concerns. The public and legal professionals will likely be informed about the scope of enforcement and any future updates to regulations.
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Key Questions
Can I still use my smartphone in UK courts?
Yes, smartphones are generally permitted in courts, but they are subject to restrictions on recording and must not be used to record court proceedings without permission.
What are the penalties for bringing Meta glasses into a court illegally?
While specific penalties are not detailed, violations can be prosecuted as contempt of court, which may result in fines or other legal consequences.
Are other wearable devices banned in UK courts?
Currently, the ban specifically targets Meta glasses, but authorities may extend restrictions to other recording devices or wearables in the future.
Why are Meta glasses considered a privacy risk?
Because they can record video discreetly, raising concerns about covert filming without consent, especially in sensitive environments like courts.
Source: fediverse
