Queens Club Basement Bans Meta Smart Glasses, Threatens Permanent Ban

Basement, an underground techno venue located in Queens, New York, has implemented a stringent ban on Meta's smart glasses, warning of permanent expulsion for anyone found wearing or possessing them. The club, which mirrors the European-style entry standards and 'vibe check' reminiscent of Berlin's Berghain, announced on Instagram that these devices breach its no-photo/no-video rule, aimed at safeguarding the privacy, safety, and freedom of its guests. This prohibition also applies to glasses stored in bags, with offenders being asked to exit and possibly face a lifetime ban. This action reflects a rising backlash against smart glasses, often referred to as 'pervert glasses' due to their links to pick-up artists and worries over covert recording. In response, Meta is planning to disable cameras when users try to hide the recording indicator LED and has prohibited unsettling videos on Instagram, yet criticism persists. Furthermore, Meta has reportedly received a patent for a 'mute or lock' switch that could deactivate sensors in consumer devices, potentially serving as a kill switch. The club's stance highlights the ongoing conflict between wearable technology and privacy within social environments.