September 3, 2026, 6:23 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Smart glasses with integrated cameras are becoming increasingly popular. At the same time, concerns about covert recordings in public spaces are growing. In Hamburg, the SPD, Greens, and Left parties want to restrict the use of such devices in certain areas.
Specifically, smart glasses are to be banned in municipal swimming pools. This applies not only to the pools but also to changing rooms, showers, saunas, relaxation areas, and lawns. The parties see an increased risk of privacy violations in these areas.
Recordings often barely noticeable
According to supporters, smart glasses differ from smartphones primarily in their inconspicuousness, as reported by “Spiegel.” While a phone must be visibly used to take photos or videos, it is often unclear with smart glasses whether a recording is in progress.
Therefore, the SPD and Greens want to eventually extend the restrictions to buses and trains. Passengers should be able to rely on not being filmed without their knowledge.
Also of interest: Competition for Ray-Ban? Apple is working on smart glasses
Facial recognition as the next topic
The discussion is not limited to camera functions. The Hamburg coalition is also calling for nationwide regulations for smart glasses. The parties are particularly critical of the potential use of AI-supported facial recognition.
The initiative shows that with technological progress, the debate over data protection and privacy is gaining importance. Smart glasses could soon be more heavily regulated than they are today.