Smart glasses in court are a privacy nightmare
The Verge
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
When Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg appeared at a Los Angeles courthouse wearing Ray-Ban smart glasses equipped with cameras, Judge Carolyn Kuhl took immediate action. Concerned about privacy and potential unauthorized recordings, the judge ordered everyone, including Zuckerberg’s team, to remove their AI-powered glasses. She warned that failing to comply could lead to contempt charges. Despite her explicit instructions, at least one individual was seen still wearing such glasses near jurors in a courthouse hallway, though it was later claimed they were not recording at the time.
The incident highlights the growing tension between wearable technology and court procedures. Courts typically prohibit recording devices due to privacy concerns and the potential for misuse. Smart glasses, with their discreet design and recording capabilities, pose a unique challenge as they can easily be mistaken for ordinary eyewear. This case underscores the need for courts to adapt to new technologies that could impact legal proceedings and public trust.
While no recordings were made during this specific instance, the broader implications are significant. The use of smart glasses in courtrooms raises questions about transparency and privacy. Legal professionals must consider how such technology could be misused, whether intentionally or inadvertently. This incident serves as a reminder of the need for clear guidelines on wearable tech in legal settings to ensure both security and fairness.
For tech enthusiasts and consumers, this story emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications of new technologies like smart glasses. As these devices become more prevalent, society must address their potential misuse in sensitive environments such as courts. The case also underscores the ongoing need for innovation in privacy protections to keep pace with technological advancements.
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Originally published on The Verge on 2/20/2026