Snap releases SPECS: standalone AR glasses with powerful hardware and a focus on privacy
Snap Inc. has officially announced SPECS — a portable computer in the form factor of augmented reality glasses. The device is already available for pre-order at a price of $2,195. Deliveries to the US, UK, and France will begin this fall.
Technical Specifications and Battery Life
The key feature of SPECS is full autonomy. The glasses operate without connecting to a smartphone or external modules, which sets them apart from many competitors. The device weighs between 132 and 136 grams, with a body made of durable TR90 polymer.
The specifications are impressive: a 51-degree field of view, two Snapdragon processors, and a signal latency of just 7 milliseconds. Battery life is up to 4 hours on a single charge, and up to 20 hours with the included case. The lenses are equipped with electrochromic coating that automatically adjusts the tint level within 10 seconds depending on lighting conditions.
Software and Ecosystem
The device runs on its own operating system, Snap OS. The interface supports gesture and voice control. Users have access to navigation apps, productivity tools, and educational programs. Developers have received an updated Lens Studio toolkit for creating AR effects. AI assistants integrated into the system can analyze the surrounding environment in real time.
Privacy as a Priority
Snap has emphasized user data protection. The glasses are equipped with an LED indicator that lights up during video recording. Most data is processed directly on the device without being sent to the cloud. Users can independently manage their sync history and delete recordings. This is especially important in light of the recent scandal with Meta, which was forced to remove facial recognition components from its smart glasses after an investigation was published.
My comment: Snap SPECS is not just another pair of AR glasses, but a serious bid for leadership in the wearable computer segment. The combination of powerful hardware, autonomy, and a focus on privacy could be a decisive factor for mass adoption of the technology. However, the $2,195 price tag remains a barrier for a broad audience.