Snap releases SPECS: standalone AR glasses with AI assistants and data protection
Snap Inc. has officially unveiled SPECS — a portable computer in the form factor of augmented reality glasses. The device is now available for pre-order at a price of $2195. This is not just a gadget, but a full-fledged computing platform that does not require a connection to a smartphone or external modules.
The device weighs between 132 and 136 grams, with a body made of TR90 polymer. SPECS are equipped with two Snapdragon processors, a 51-degree field of view, and a signal latency of just 7 milliseconds. Battery life reaches 4 hours on a single charge, and up to 20 hours with the case.
Particular attention is drawn to the lenses with electrochromic coating: they change the level of tinting within 10 seconds depending on lighting conditions. This solves one of the key problems of AR glasses — adaptation to the external environment.
The device runs on its own operating system, Snap OS, with support for gesture and voice control. Users have access to navigation, work tools, and educational applications. Developers have received an updated Lens Studio for creating AR effects, and AI assistants capable of analyzing the surrounding environment in real time have been integrated into the system.
Snap has emphasized data protection. The glasses are equipped with an LED indicator that lights up during video recording. Most data is processed locally, without being sent to the cloud. Users can manage sync history and delete recordings. Deliveries to the US, UK, and France will begin in the fall.
My analysis: SPECS represent a significant step forward compared to Snap's previous attempts in AR. The autonomy and local data processing make them more appealing to privacy-conscious users. However, the $2195 price tag and limited delivery geography keep them in the niche of enthusiasts and developers for now. The AR glasses market is becoming increasingly competitive, and Snap is betting on its ecosystem and security.