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Philadelphia Courts Enforce Smart Eyeglass Ban Amid Privacy Concerns

Hacker News •
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Philadelphia courts are implementing a strict ban on AI-integrated eyewear starting Monday, prohibiting devices like Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses and Oakley's AI-enabled models from all First Judicial District buildings. The policy, announced by spokesperson Martin O’Rourke, specifically targets recording-capable eyewear to prevent potential witness and juror intimidation, distinguishing it from broader bans on phones and laptops, which remain permitted if powered off. $500+ smart glasses—now marketed by Ray-Ban and Oakley—face scrutiny as courts grapple with their stealthy recording features, unlike bulkier devices. While exceptions exist for prior judicial approval, the ban marks a rare statewide restriction, joining similar policies in Hawaii, Wisconsin, and North Carolina.