UK cinemas restricting Meta AI and other smart glasses over piracy concerns

Science & TechnologyUK cinemas restricting Meta AI and other smart glasses over piracy concernsBy Reuters -Aug 20, 2026Add ARY News on GoogleAAResizeLONDON: Cinema operators in Britain are introducing policies to prohibit ​or restrict camera-enabled smart glasses, including ‌Meta’s AI-powered eyewear, the UK Cinema Association said on Thursday, citing privacy and ​film piracy concerns. The move follows ​growing scrutiny of smart glasses over ⁠their recording capabilities, with courts ​in England and Wales this month ​prohibiting Meta smart glasses because of restrictions on taking images and videos in courts. Policies ​vary by venue, with operators ​introducing prohibitions and/or restrictions rather than a single ‌industry-wide ⁠rule. The UK Cinema Association said operators recognise smart glasses can provide benefits to those with specific access ​requirements. The association ​said it ⁠would continue working with members to ensure their ​approach “remains relevant and proportionate.” Elsewhere, a ​German ⁠advocacy group earlier in August said it had filed a criminal complaint against ⁠Meta ​and others involved in ​selling the Meta devices, citing privacy laws. .post__content p { word-wrap: break-word; } .post__content img.alignleft { float: left; margin-top: 6px; margin-right: 24px !important; margin-bottom: 12px !important; margin-left: 0; width: auto !important; } .post__content img.alignright { float: right; margin-top: 6px; margin-right: 0; margin-bottom: 12px !important; margin-left: 24px !important; width: auto !important; }