Fans Bypass Masters' Phone Ban with Wearable Tech

Apple Watch, Ray-Ban Meta glasses, and other devices allow attendees to stay connected despite strict no-recording rules.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:05am

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a futuristic smartwatch and augmented reality glasses, with neon cyan and magenta lights illuminating the intricate cybernetic components. The watch and glasses are floating against a dark, moody background, conceptually representing the tension between tradition and technology at the Masters golf tournament.Wearable tech offers golf fans new ways to stay connected at the Masters, despite the tournament's strict no-device policies.Augusta Today

The Masters Tournament, a renowned golf event, has long prohibited all recording and communication devices, including smartphones and digital cameras. However, the rise of sophisticated wearable technology, such as smartwatches and smart glasses, has enabled attendees to bypass these rules and stay connected during the event. While some argue the Masters should update its policies to include wearable tech, others believe the strict no-phone policy helps preserve the event's unique atmosphere and intimacy.

Why it matters

The debate over wearable technology at the Masters reflects a broader conversation about the role of technology in sports and the balance between tradition and innovation. As the event continues to evolve, it must find a way to adapt to changing consumer behaviors while still maintaining the timeless charm that has made it a beloved institution.

The details

Attendees have been using devices like Apple smartwatches and Ray-Ban Meta glasses to send messages, make calls, and even capture photos and videos at the Masters, despite the event's strict no-recording policy. These wearable devices allow fans to stay connected and share their experiences without violating the rules.

  • The Masters Tournament takes place annually in April.
  • The 2026 edition of the event, where this issue was observed, occurred from April 9-12.

The players

Daniel Rapaport

A golf reporter who argues the Masters' no-phones policy should be updated to include wearable technology, as the mystique of the event is at risk of slipping due to fans' reliance on technology.

Apple

A technology company that produces the Apple Watch, a popular smartwatch that can be used to bypass the Masters' recording ban.

Ray-Ban Meta

A brand of smart glasses that can be worn discreetly to capture content at the Masters without being easily detected.

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What they’re saying

“Augusta's no-phones policy should be updated to include wearable technology. The mystique of the Masters is at risk of slipping, as fans increasingly rely on technology to stay connected and share their experiences.”

— Daniel Rapaport, Golf Reporter

What’s next

The Masters organizers will likely continue to evaluate their policies around recording devices, including wearable technology, to balance fan engagement with preserving the event's unique atmosphere.

The takeaway

The debate over wearable technology at the Masters highlights the broader tension between tradition and innovation in the world of sports. As technology continues to evolve, event organizers must find ways to adapt while still maintaining the timeless charm that makes their events so special.