Philadelphia Court implements ban on all smart and AI powered glasses

A Philadelphia Court has implemented a tech change in a first-of-its-kind ruling. 

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A ban has been placed on eyeglasses with recording capabilities, like Meta glasses. This includes both prescription and non-prescription Smart eyeglasses. 

Philadelphia Courts say this will protect the privacy of those in the courtroom and prevent the unauthorized recording of court proceedings. 

Those who violate the ban, which came into effect on Monday, March 31, could face criminal contempt charges, arrest and prosecution. 

“There already exists a long-standing prohibition on recording devices of any kind in FJD courtrooms. Adding Smart/META eye glasses to the prohibition will further enhance privacy measures and help lessen witness or juror intimidation by preventing any video recording of them,” said FJD Court Administrator Richard McSorely. 

These types of glasses, officials said, will now be forbidden inside any First Judicial District (FJD-Philadelphia Courts) of Pennsylvania courthouse, building, or office without the court’s express written permission.

Officials said this new ban adds on to an existing prohibition on any type of audio/video/listening/recording devices — including all cameras and/or cell phones — inside courtrooms in Philadelphia. 

In announcing the ban, court officials did not immediately say how much any fines associated with this ban could cost, but they noted that violators could be charged with contempt of court.