Smart glasses face school ban in new crackdown against controversial tech

Education minister Josh MacAlister said smart glasses should not be used in schools and that he would clarify guidance for headteachers. The move follows concerns that camera-equipped glasses can be used to record people without their knowledge, raising privacy and safeguarding issues.

Some models can take photos and videos, display text and play music, and reports say covert footage of women has been shared on social media. Ministers have also said they are considering restrictions on sales to certain users, while an MP called for a ban in public buildings. Separately, from September next year, schools are to be told that pupils’ phones must not be seen or heard and must be inaccessible during the day.