WorldGaming has banned the use of Meta Glasses and similar devices at its events due to concerns from exhibitors regarding privacy and intellectual property protection. The company, which organizes the ICE exhibition and the iGB Affiliate Barcelona event, has updated its ‘Good Neighbour’ policy to prohibit gadgets capable of discreetly recording videos, sounds, and images.
James Williams, who formulated the policy, emphasized that the banned devices may lead to unauthorized recordings of attendees without their knowledge or consent. According to the new guidelines, any photography or recording must be conducted openly and must comply with the organizer's Code of Conduct, requiring the consent of all participants involved.
Margaret Dunn, Portfolio Director for ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona, noted that the decision came after feedback from exhibitors worried about the potential compromise of their intellectual property. She explained, "Copyright infringements undermine responsible progressive businesses and devalue their investment in R&D – which is the lifeblood of every creative and dynamic industry such as ours." Given that ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona sit at the crossroads of gaming and technology, Dunn stated it’s vital to protect the innovations within the industry, leading to the amendment of the Good Neighbour policy to include a ban on covert recording devices.
This move aligns WorldGaming with a growing trend of venues and organizations implementing restrictions on smart glasses and other wearable recording technologies.
