Snap officially unveiled SPECS: a standalone AR computer for $2195
Snap Inc. has taken another step in the evolution of wearable computing by announcing SPECS—standalone augmented reality glasses that operate without being tethered to a smartphone or external modules. The device is already available for pre-order at a price of $2,195, with first shipments to the US, UK, and France starting this fall.
The device weighs between 132 and 136 grams, and its body is made of high-strength TR90 polymer. The technical specifications are impressive: a 51-degree field of view, two Snapdragon processors, and a signal latency of just 7 milliseconds. Battery life reaches 4 hours without recharging, and up to 20 hours with the case.
The lenses are equipped with an electrochromic coating that automatically adjusts the tint level within 10 seconds depending on lighting conditions. This is a key feature for comfortable use both indoors and outdoors.
The device runs on its own operating system, Snap OS, with support for gesture and voice control. Users have access to navigation services, work tools, and educational applications. Developers have received an updated Lens Studio for creating AR effects, and the system includes AI assistants capable of analyzing the environment in real time.
Snap's approach to data protection deserves special attention. The glasses are equipped with an LED indicator that activates when recording video. Most data is processed locally, without being sent to the cloud, and users can independently manage their sync history and delete recordings. This contrasts with the recent scandal surrounding Meta, which was forced to remove the facial recognition feature from its smart glasses after a WIRED investigation.
My analysis: SPECS look like a mature product capable of redefining the wearable AR device segment. Autonomy and local data processing are what set Snap apart from competitors and make the glasses not just a gadget, but a full-fledged tool for work and everyday use. However, the $2,195 price tag is clearly aimed at early adopters and developers, rather than the mass market.