Shattered Glass: Where Google Glass Will Likely Be Banned

Early Google Glass adopters are getting away with a lot of shit as the future of face-tech rolls out. But as the specs proliferate, will backlash outweigh acceptance?

As NBC News reported, Google Glass will not be welcomed at Sapphire's Gentleman's Club in New York City. Which makes sense--most, if not all strip clubs already ban video recording devices. And while it should be expected that Glass will be banned from many of the locales (certain museums, clubs, concert venues and government buildings) where cameras are already banned, where specifically will Google Glass get the red tape?

That's hard to say. It's probably still too early to safely bet on anything, but we can imagine a few locations where you'll have to check the Glass at the door.

Most people are already annoyed by those who experience live music through their phones. It's already commong enough to see people scroll through their Twitter feeds in between acts, but bands have become more upfront in their discomfort with iPhone glare replacing the waving of lighters. Just ask the Yeah Yeah Yeah's, who posted the above sign outside their recent show at Webster Hall. There's no doubt that bouncers and bands will be intolerant of concert-goers potentially bootlegging set footage via Glass' subtle camera.

For legal and privacy reasons, expect to check your Glass at the door on Election Day. Government representatives in Tennessee recently proposed a bill to ban cell phones in voting boths for fear that citizens may be selling their votes and using a camera to prove their sale in order to collect payment.

In late January, the New York Times ran a feature that tracked the recent backlash of chefs going salty on patrons who snap pictures of their meal to share online. The Eat It Don't Tweet It philosophy may spill over to Glass users.

Sure, there are plenty of sites that allow students to watch university lectures online. But you'd be hardpressed to imagine Professors--especially the older, crochety ones--rejecting Glass in an effort to prevent students from sharing notes with their truant classmates. Glass could change our entire notion of cheating, if actually allowed on campuses.

Imagine changing in front of a Glass-er. Oof. Well-endowed or not, hairless or forest-like, Glass wearers have the potential to take a quick pic of your private bits, and subsequently forward it to everyone you know. Either way, Glass could have a profound impact on sexual harrassment and rape in the digital age.

Similar to concert venues or clubs, no one wants the possibility of Glass-wearers bootlegging a movie or live-Tweeting the experience.

These predictions may all be moot or paranoid, but it's worth thinking about if Glass turns out to be a hit (though we have our doubts). There may be Glass Etiquette guides appearing online already, but who knows if users will abide to social customs…that is until the bouncer asks you to check your specs or GTFO.

Because let's be real. Google Glass could just be the next Segway.