Snap is taking its augmented reality ambitions further with new Specs glasses that can run apps without relying on a smartphone.
Priced at $2,195, the upcoming AR glasses are designed as standalone wearable computers. Therefore, users will not need to connect them to another device to access apps and software.
Snap first unveiled Specs at the Augmented World Expo in June. Now, the company has revealed more details about how the glasses will work and what users can expect from them.
Specs Bring Dual Displays to AR Glasses
Unlike many existing smart glasses, Specs feature two built-in displays, with one display positioned in each lens.
This setup allows augmented reality content to appear across the wearer’s field of view. As a result, users can interact with digital information without depending on a separate screen.
Snap is also targeting several entertainment and everyday uses with the glasses. Users can play AR games with other Specs owners and turn the glasses into a virtual large-screen television.
In addition, Specs will support augmented reality navigation. The glasses can also use Snap’s new Specs Intelligence platform to place relevant information directly within the wearer’s view.
For comparison, Meta’s $799 Ray-Ban Display glasses require a compatible smartphone. They also use a single display positioned in the lower-right area of the right lens.
Specs Intelligence Adds an AI Layer
Alongside the glasses, Snap has introduced Specs Intelligence as a standalone AI service.
Unlike Snap’s existing generative AI features, Specs Intelligence operates separately from the Snapchat app. It will also be accessible through dedicated desktop and mobile applications for people who do not own Specs.
Snap describes Specs Intelligence as an “anticipatory AI service” rather than an agent or traditional assistant.
The service is designed to understand users’ goals, priorities, relationships, and routines. It can build that understanding from the apps and tools users choose to connect.
For example, users can connect external accounts such as Google. Specs Intelligence can then use that information to surface relevant reminders and context.
The service could provide questions to consider before a meeting or highlight important details before an upcoming trip. It can also organize information into different “corners” according to the user’s context.
Consequently, personal reminders, such as family-related tasks, can remain separate from work deadlines.
How Will the AI Work With Specs?
People using Snap’s AR Specs will be able to access Specs Intelligence directly through the glasses.
The AI can display relevant information within the wearer’s field of view. Users can also communicate with the system through the “Hey Specs” voice command.
During a demonstration, the complete assistant functionality was not yet available. However, the voice command could already be used to open a browser window.
Snap is therefore presenting Specs Intelligence as an important part of the overall AR experience. The service is intended to connect digital information with the user’s surroundings and daily routines.
Snap Is Targeting Businesses Too
Snap is not positioning Specs solely as a consumer entertainment device. The company is also developing applications for enterprise users and field workers.
Through its work with Salesforce, Snap has demonstrated how employees could use Specs while working with physical objects.
Workers could use the glasses to identify objects and view related information without switching to another device. This could allow relevant information to remain available while employees continue their work.
Snap is also working with Nvidia to bring the chipmaker’s AI agents to the glasses. The goal is to help workers better understand their surroundings while using Specs.
Privacy Remains a Major Issue
Snap is also highlighting privacy protections around Specs Intelligence.
The company says it will not use Specs Intelligence data to train its AI models or deliver advertisements. It also says its employees cannot view or access the personal content users provide to the service.
Privacy remains an important issue across the smart-glasses market, particularly because cameras can potentially record people without their knowledge or consent.
Snap’s approach combines standalone computing, dual AR displays, AI assistance, navigation, entertainment, and workplace applications. However, the company is entering a market where several major technology companies are developing competing eyewear products.
Specs Intelligence Preview Begins in the US
Snap has started offering a limited version of Specs Intelligence in the United States through its Specs app on iOS.
The preview allows users to connect their Google accounts. They can then view insights about where they spend their time and attention.
However, the preview does not include proactive suggestions. The full early-access version will initially remain invite-only through the Specs Mac app.
People interested in testing the service can join the waitlist. Meanwhile, Snap continues developing the broader Specs experience ahead of its wider availability.
Smart Glasses Competition Is Growing
Snap is entering an increasingly competitive smart-glasses market. Meta already sells its Ray-Ban smart glasses, while Samsung and Google are preparing their own eyewear products.
Apple is also reportedly developing smart glasses.
Against that backdrop, Snap is taking a distinct approach with Specs. The company is combining independent computing with two AR displays and an AI service designed to provide context throughout the user’s day.
The $2,195 price tag also places Specs firmly in the premium category. With entertainment, navigation, AI assistance, and workplace applications, Snap is seeking to make its glasses more than an accessory for a smartphone.
Instead, Specs are being developed as a standalone computing platform that can bring apps, information, and augmented reality directly into the wearer’s field of view.
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