There have been plenty of parodies exploring the creepier possibilities of Google Glass, so it should come as no surprise that it’s already been banned in a Seattle bar, even though it’s not even out yet.
The 5 Point Cafe posted on its Facebook wall earlier this week saying that it’d have no tolerance for the smart-glasses on the premises once said smart-glasses actually exist and are available to the public. From the post:
For the record, The 5 Point is the first Seattle business to ban in advance Google Glasses. And ass kickings will be encouraged for violators.
If that language sounds a little tongue in cheek, that’s because it kind of is. Kind of. As owner Dave Meinert explained to KIRO-FM:
Part of this is a joke, to be funny on Facebook, and get reaction. But part of it’s serious, because we don’t let people film other people or take photos unwanted of people in the bar, because it is kind of a private place that people go.
And it makes a certain amount of sense. The concept of being surreptitiously filmed while strolling through a public square is one thing. The thought of being recorded sneaking a quick pair of double whiskeys on your lunch break before heading back to the pediatric ward is something else entirely.
But there was a time when everyone having phones in their pocket was wild and strange, and occasionally socially unacceptable too, so you’ll have to expect we’ll move through this and come out the other side somehow. In the meantime, just stick to traditionally sneaky recording practices at The 5 Point Cafe. There are still plenty of those. [PCMag]