Snap launches AR glasses SPECS: a standalone computer for a new era of interaction
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, placing it alongside premium gadgets aimed at professionals and tech enthusiasts.
Shipments will begin this fall in the US, UK, and France. The key advantage of SPECS is its complete autonomy. The device does not require a connection to a smartphone or external modules, which fundamentally sets it apart from many competitors that still rely on a "brain" in the pocket.
Technical Specifications and Design
The device's weight ranges from 132 to 136 grams, and the body is made of durable TR90 polymer. Performance is handled by two Snapdragon processors, ensuring minimal signal latency — just 7 milliseconds. The field of view is 51 degrees, a respectable figure for an AR headset. The battery provides up to 4 hours of operation without recharging, and the included case extends this to 20 hours.
Particular attention is given to the lenses with electrochromic coating. They can change the degree of tinting in 10 seconds, adapting to lighting conditions. This makes using the glasses comfortable both indoors and outdoors.
Software and Features
The device runs on the proprietary Snap OS operating system. The interface supports gesture and voice control, providing access to navigation, work tools, and educational applications. For developers, Snap has updated the Lens Studio toolkit, allowing the creation of AR effects. AI assistants integrated into the system can analyze the surrounding environment in real time — opening up broad possibilities for augmented reality in everyday life.
Privacy and Security
Snap has paid special attention to data protection. The glasses are equipped with an LED indicator that lights up during video recording. Most computations are performed directly on the device without sending data to the cloud. Users can independently manage sync history and delete recordings. This is an important step in light of recent scandals involving facial recognition in Meta's smart glasses, when after a WIRED investigation, the company was forced to remove the corresponding features from its Meta AI app.
Cryptalist Analytics: Snap has bet on autonomy and privacy — two factors that have long held back the mass adoption of AR glasses. SPECS do not attempt to replace a smartphone but offer a new way to interact with the digital environment. However, the $2,195 price tag and limited shipping geography still keep the device in a niche for early adopters. A real breakthrough will occur when the cost of such devices drops to the level of premium smartphones.