Snap to Launch Lightweight Smart Glasses in 2026, Outpacing Competitors
Snap's CEO Evan Spiegel revealed plans for new lightweight 'Specs' smart glasses, set to launch in 2026, ahead of Meta and Google.
Overview
- Snap CEO Evan Spiegel announced the release of new lightweight 'Specs' smart glasses, targeting a 2026 launch.
- The new smart glasses aim to enhance Snap's position in the competitive AR glasses market.
- Snap is positioning itself ahead of major competitors Meta and Google in the smart glasses sector.
- The announcement highlights Snap's commitment to innovation in augmented reality technology.
- The lightweight design of the 'Specs' is expected to attract consumers looking for practical AR solutions.
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Analysis
Announce plans for lightweight AR smart glasses, competing with Meta and Google, launching in 2026.
Snap CEO Evan Spiegel announced plans to sell new lightweight AR smart glasses called Specs to consumers starting in 2026.
Snap faces competition from Meta and Google in the AR glasses market.
Snap's previous attempt to sell consumer smart glasses in 2016 was not successful.
They'll work without needing a phone.
The new smart glasses are expected to be released next year.
Articles (3)
Center (3)
"…Snap CEO Evan Spiegel promises new lightweight ‘Specs’ smart glasses next year, in race to beat Meta and Google to market."
Fortune·21d·"…The aim is to bring games and 3D collaborative experiences to a larger audience, but at an unknown price and design."
CNET·21d·"…Snap seems to believe it’s done just that with Specs, but several details are still unclear."
TechCrunch·21d·FAQ
Snap's Specs AR glasses will offer see-through lenses, AI integrations, real-time translation, multiplayer gaming, spatial computing, web browsing, content streaming, and cooking instructions—all while keeping hands free and using the lightweight, ultra-powerful Snap OS platform.
Snap is positioning itself ahead of major competitors Meta and Google by announcing a consumer-ready, lightweight AR smart glasses product for a 2026 launch, showcasing a commitment to innovation and aiming to be first to market with practical AR solutions.
Snap has invested over a decade and more than $3 billion in developing the Specs smart glasses, reflecting a deep commitment to advancing augmented reality technology and entering the consumer market with a robust product.
The lightweight design aims to provide enhanced comfort and practicality for daily wear, making the Specs more appealing to consumers seeking convenient and immersive AR experiences without bulky hardware.
Unlike earlier Spectacles, which focused on camera functionality and were mainly for developers, Specs are designed as full wearable computers with augmented reality features and will be available to general consumers starting in 2026.
History
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