UK CINEMAS WEIGH META GLASSES BAN OVER PIRACY

The UK Cinema Association (UKCA) said multiple cinema chains could implement restrictions on camera-enabled smart glasses, citing concerns about covert recording and unauthorized film distribution. Meta's glasses, equipped with recording capabilities, pose a piracy risk in darkened theaters where illicit filming could go undetected. The trade body acknowledged cinemas must balance security concerns against potential benefits of AI-enabled technology. The move reflects broader industry anxiety about smart glasses in venues where content protection is critical. Other entertainment venues globally have flagged similar concerns about covert recording devices. No formal ban has been announced, and implementation would vary by individual cinema chains. The UKCA's position suggests the sector is exploring practical solutions rather than outright prohibitions, though specific policies remain under development.