Smart glasses banned in Welsh Parliament after politician used them during speeches

The Senedd has put a stop to the use of smart glasses, at least for now.

He delivered a five-minute speech packed with statistics without once looking down at his notes, leaving people wondering what had changed.

And the answer, it turned out, was right in front of their eyes.

O'Connell was wearing smart glasses equipped with a teleprompter.

But now, according to the BBC, the Senedd has effectively banned the technology while officials review its use.

O'Connell has agreed to stop wearing the glasses in the meantime.

The reversal comes from presiding officer Huw Irranca-Davies, who runs proceedings in the Welsh Parliament.

Why has the Senedd changed its mind?

Irranca-Davies set out that original position in a letter dated 20 October, published in committee papers last week.

Members could wear the devices in the chamber, it said, "provided that they give me advance notice."

Officials changed course on Tuesday.

A statement to MSs, covered in the Senedd's review into AI-equipped glasses, said the presiding officer "will not be considering any other requests" until that review has reported.

No member will use the technology until then.

O'Connell said: "I've voluntarily agreed to stop using the ones I'm using as a teleprompter until the review completes." He added: "I was no way reliant on their use."

Will smart glasses be allowed again?

Possibly, but politicians will have to wait for the review.

The Senedd plans to consult its members and staff before deciding how the technology should be used in the chamber.

The review is expected to finish by the end of 2026, with recommendations due in the new year.