Snap launches AR glasses SPECS: a portable computer weighing 132 grams
Snap Inc. has officially announced SPECS — a full-fledged portable computer in the form of augmented reality glasses. The device is already available for pre-order at a price of $2195, with first shipments to the US, UK, and France starting this fall.
The key feature of SPECS is complete autonomy. Unlike many competitors, the glasses do not require a connection to a smartphone or an external computing module. The device weighs between 132 and 136 grams, and the body is made of TR90 polymer. The technical specifications are impressive: a 51-degree field of view, two Snapdragon processors, a signal latency of just 7 milliseconds, and a battery life of up to 4 hours on a single charge and up to 20 hours with the charging case.
The lenses are equipped with an electrochromic coating that automatically adjusts the tint level within 10 seconds depending on the lighting. The device runs on its own operating system, Snap OS, with support for gesture and voice control. Users have access to navigation features, work tools, and educational applications.
For developers, Snap has updated Lens Studio — making it easier to create AR effects. AI assistants capable of analyzing the surrounding environment in real time have been integrated into the system. Special attention is paid to data protection: an LED indicator lights up when recording video, and most data is processed locally without being sent to the cloud. Users can manage their sync history and delete recordings at their discretion.
My analysis: Snap is betting on privacy and autonomy — a smart move in light of recent scandals involving facial recognition in Meta's smart glasses. SPECS could become a niche but important product for professionals and AR enthusiasts, although the $2195 price tag clearly limits mass adoption. The question is whether Snap OS can compete with Apple and Meta's ecosystems in the long term.