Specs: Snap Inc’s Next-Generation Augmented Reality Glasses

At the Augmented World Expo 2025, Snap Inc. made a significant announcement regarding its next-generation glasses, termed “Specs,” set to hit the market in 2026. These innovative glasses are lightweight, high-performance wearable computers with see-through lenses, merging augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) into the physical realm.

Vision for the Future of Computing

Evan Spiegel, who co-founded Snap and serves as CEO, mentioned that the timing is ripe for a transformation in computing that seamlessly combines digital experiences with the physical world. Excitement surrounds the upcoming launch of Specs as they represent a leap in AI and AR technology, resulting in new, human-focused computing experiences. Snap holds the view that Specs are the most sophisticated personal computing devices available, and the anticipation is palpable for users to experience them firsthand.

Investment and Development

Snap has dedicated over $3 billion and a span of 11 years in research and development to materialize Specs. Unlike traditional smartphones, which limit digital engagement to a flat screen, Specs are designed to facilitate computing in a spatial, intuitive, and hands-free manner. They empower users to browse, stream, engage, and play without the need to handle a separate device.

Foundation Laid by Previous Versions

The fifth-generation Spectacles, released in 2024 for developers, set the stage for this new consumer edition. Snap’s AR platform now boasts over 8 billion interactions with its lenses each day, supported by 400,000 developers contributing more than 4 million lens creations.

Functionality and Applications

Specs are equipped to comprehend their surroundings using cutting-edge machine learning, presenting context-aware assistance, game overlays, and creative functions. Whether one is cooking, traveling, or exploring a city, Specs aim to create a harmonious blend of digital interactions with everyday experiences.

Applications in Development

Several exciting applications are already in progress, including:

• Super Travel (Gowaaa): Translates signs, menus, and currencies for international travellers.
• Drum Kit (Paradiddle): Provides guided drum lessons with visual elements.
• Cookmate (Headraft): Recommends recipes and offers step-by-step cooking guidance.
• Pool Assist (Studio ANRK): Aids in improving pool strategies in real time.
• Wisp World (Liquid City): Enables users to embark on imaginative explorations powered by AR.

Updates to Snap OS and Lens Studio

Snap has revealed several enhancements to its Snap OS and Lens Studio tools:

• Enhanced integrations with OpenAI and Google’s Gemini allowing developers to craft multimodal, AI-driven experiences tapping into speech, vision, and contextual awareness.
• The Depth Module API ensures precise 3D anchoring of digital elements in the physical environment.
• Snap3D API aids in real-time 3D object generation in AR.
• The Speech Recognition API enables real-time transcription across over 40 languages, ensuring high accuracy even for non-native speakers.

Additional Features and Collaborations

Other tools include a Fleet Management app for overseeing multiple Specs devices, a Guided Mode for immersive experiences based on location, and Guided Navigation for AR-enhanced museum and city tours.

Furthermore, Snap is partnering with Niantic to develop Spatial VPS (Visual Positioning System) for Specs, creating a collectively enhanced AI map of the world. The inclusion of WebXR support in browsers will streamline developers’ ability to test and deploy AR experiences.

Integration into Entertainment Platforms

Companies like Enklu, known for its Verse Immersive theatres in the US, are beginning to integrate Specs into their entertainment offerings. In Chicago, users can now enjoy the game SightCraft with the glasses, with plans for expansion to additional cities.

Invitation for Developers

For those interested in creating AR applications for Specs, Snap is encouraging early access sign-ups at spectacles.com/lens-studio.