New York is becoming the first state in the nation to prohibit smart glasses from being brought into all court facilities, as officials move to address concerns over hidden recording technology and courtroom privacy The statewide policy will take effect July 20 and applies to more than 1,240 courts across New York’s Unified Court System
The new restrictions cover eyewear and headwear equipped with cameras, microphones, computers or other recording capabilities, PC Mag reports. The rule applies not only to members of the public but also court employees who enter court buildings with the devices. Those who bring prohibited smart glasses will be required to leave them with security personnel while inside the facility
Court officials said the goal is to prevent unauthorized recordings of sensitive legal proceedings and protect the privacy of defendants, witnesses, jurors and other people involved in cases. The devices can capture video and audio discreetly, creating concerns that traditional courtroom restrictions on recording equipment may not adequately address newer technology
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The move comes as smart glasses, including artificial intelligence-powered models, become more common among consumers. Privacy advocates and courts around the country have raised questions about how easily the devices can be used to record people without their knowledge
New York’s decision follows similar concerns raised in other court systems. Judges in other states have taken action against smart glasses in individual cases, but New York’s statewide approach represents one of the broadest restrictions placed on the technology inside courthouses
The ban does not target all wearable technology but specifically focuses on devices capable of recording or processing information. Officials say the policy is intended to keep courtroom security rules consistent as technology continues to evolve
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