Google Glass hasn't even been officially launched, and it's already facing some harsh criticism. According to Computerworld, Ceasars Palace hotel and casino in Las Vegas has banned the wearable device ahead of its release.
It won't be an overarching ban, but will instead prevent patrons from wearing the glasses while gambling.
"Gaming regulations prohibit the use of computers or recording devices by persons who are gambling," Gary Thompson, a spokesman for Caesars, stated. "Therefore, individuals wearing Google Glass would not be allowed to gamble. If they attempted to do so, would be subject to arrest under various state gaming regulations."
"There have been numerous incidents around the country in which people have used computers or cameras secreted elsewhere to keep track of cards in blackjack games," Thompson continued. "When they were caught, they went to jail."
It certainly makes sense, but if Google plans on trying to make the Glasses as ubiquitous as possible, it seems to open the doors to a myriad of problems. Really anywhere recording devices would not be allowed, Google Glasses would likely be banned, making them potentially inconvenient to have as a constant traveling companion.
Google responded by saying that the company is keeping these concerns in mind while designing the device.
"It's early and we are thinking very carefully about how we design Glass. New technology always raises new issues," said a Google spokesman. "Our Glass Explorer program, which reaches people from all walks of life, will ensure that our users become active participants in shaping the future of this technology."
The Glass Explorer program allows small group of early adopters to have access to the Glasses ahead of launch for a fee.
Surprisingly, Ceasars Palace isn't even the first business to speak out about the technology. Seattle's 5 Points Cafe and Bar announced last March that they would be instituting a no Google Glass policy.
In a blog post the cafe stated: "If you're one of the few who are planning on going out and spending your savings on Google Glasses -- what will for sure be a new fad for the fanny-pack wearing, never removing your bluetooth headset-wearing crowd -- plan on removing them before you enter The 5 Point. The 5 Point is officially a No Google Glass zone."
In this case though, it sounds more like archaic close-mindedness than an actual business concern. Remind me never to visit the 5 Points Cafe.
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