Snap has been working on smart eyewear for years, though earlier attempts focused on image and video capture rather than augmented reality, or AR. — Unsplash
Snap Inc is rolling out an updated version of its operating system for augmented-reality glasses, a move that signals it’s getting closer to launching its first consumer smart glasses next year.
The social media company on Sept 15 launched Snap OS 2.0, claiming the new features bring a more robust software experience to its current Spectacles glasses. Right now, only developers have access to the device, which became available last year. A consumer version that’s coming in 2026, called Specs, is smaller and lighter and runs on the same operating system, Snap has said.
Snap has been working on smart eyewear for years, though earlier attempts focused on image and video capture rather than augmented reality, or AR. Its efforts to launch consumer-focused hardware have become especially timely as rival Meta Platforms Inc has seen success with its Ray-Ban smart glasses. Meta also plans to launch AR spectacles, code-named Artemis, in 2027. Other tech giants like Apple Inc and Alphabet Inc's Google are also building smart glasses, Bloomberg has reported.
At the center of Snap’s software update is an overhauled browser experience with a streamlined design that offers faster page loading and more intuitive navigation, according to the company. Snap said the browser can handle playback for lengthy videos and supports a wide range of websites, from news outlets to online shops.
Snap is also introducing updates to its AR apps, called Lenses, within Snap OS. One new feature, the Spotlight Lens, transfers a user's content preferences from the Snapchat app to the glasses so the AR device can recommend similar videos. This will allow the glasses to learn the wearer’s content tastes and recommend similar content.
Another app, called Gallery Lens, lets users view videos captured with Spectacles, and then post clips to Snapchat Stories or send them to friends. Previously, users had to import videos from the glasses to their phone for viewing; now they’ll be able to watch up to 30 seconds of captured content directly on the glasses.
Snap also partnered with Kluge Interactive, the maker of the popular virtual-reality dance game Synth Riders, to develop a version of the game for Snap OS. Similar to the VR version, players will be able to dodge obstacles by moving to the music. Snap said the game will also have some additional features tailored specifically for its product.
Snap continues to accept applications for developers wanting to try Spectacles ahead of the consumer release next year. – Bloomberg
