The development of the AR glasses Spectacles from Snap: from the camera accessory to the AR vision
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Published on: January 25, 2025 / update from: January 25, 2025 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
The development of the AR glasses Spectacles from Snap: From the camera accessory to the AR vision-Image: Snap
SNAP has started the development of AR glasses Spectacles several years ago and gradually developed the technology - research research
From vision to innovation: the development of AR glasses Spectacles
Snap, the company behind Snapchat, has established itself as a pioneer in the field of augmented reality (AR) in recent years. One of the company's most exciting technologies is the AR glasses Spectacles, the development and progress of which impressively underline the vision of SNAP in the field of immersive experiences. The following text provides a comprehensive overview of the development of the spectacles, from the first models to the latest technological breakthroughs, and illuminates their importance for the future of AR technology.
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The beginnings: First steps with the Spectacles generation
The trip began in September 2016 when Snap presented the first generation of the Spectacles. These sunglasses with an integrated camera were primarily designed to record short videos that could be divided directly on Snapchat. Although these glasses were technically impressive, their focus was not on augmented reality, but on integrating social media into the everyday life of users.
The success of the first spectacles was limited: although the design noticed and the functionality was innovative, the product still had to deal with acceptance problems and a limited option. Nevertheless, these first versions laid the foundation for what should come. They showed that SNAP had a long -term interest in developing hardware that expands the user experience.
The development into AR glasses
In May 2021, Snap with the fourth generation of Spectacles took an important step towards augmented reality. This new version was no longer just a cameras, but for the first time with AR functionality. The glasses contained integrated displays that made it possible to project digital content into the real world.
Although these AR glasses were not yet intended for the mass market, it marked significant technological progress. At the time, Snap CEO Evan Spiegel said: "We are still at the beginning of a ten-year trip to develop AR glasses for the mainstream." This sentence made it clear the long-term perspective of the company and its ambitions to take a pioneering role in AR technology.
The fourth generation of the Spectacles was mainly aimed at developers and creative people who were supposed to develop the first applications for the new platform. At the same time, SNAP collected valuable insights to further improve the technology.
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The current generation: Spectacles 5
In September 2024, Snap presented the fifth generation of the Spectacles, which is a significant further development in AR technology. The Spectacles 5 are independent AR glasses that are operated with the specially developed SNAP OS operating system. This operating system enables seamless integration of AR functions and offers an intuitive user interface.
Technical specifications
The Spectacles 5 impress with impressive technical equipment:
- Weight: 226 grams
- Display: See-Through WaveGuides with LCOS microprojectors
- Viewing field: 46 degrees diagonal
- Resolution: 37 pixels per degree
- Processors: Two powerful Snapdragon chips
- Akccaufzeit: 45 minutes in standalone operation
- Cameras: four tracking cameras (two color cameras, two infrared cameras)
- Sensors: 6-axis IMU, GPS
- Connectivity: WiFi 6 and Bluetooth
Functions and operation
The new spectacles offer a variety of functions that fully exploit the potential of AR glasses:
- Hand gestures and voice control: Users can control AR content through simple hand movements or voice commands.
- Integration of AR content into the real environment: Objects and information can be seamlessly projected into the physical world.
- Multiplayer-ar experiences: Several glasses wearers can experience interactive content together.
- AI integration: An intelligent assistant supports content generation and interactions with the environment.
- Compatibility with Snapchat: Users can share their AR experiences directly with the Snapchat community.
Areas of application: from entertainment to productivity
The Spectacles 5 impressively show how versatile AR technology can be used. Snap works with partners such as Openai, Ilm, Niantic and Lego to develop innovative applications for glasses. Here are some examples:
1. Games and interactive experiences
AR games are lifted to a new level with the Spectacles 5. Players can immerse themselves in Immersive worlds that merge with their real environment. Multiplayer functions make it possible to play with friends and make the real world a digital field.
2. Productivity and work environments
In the world of work, the Spectacles 5 offer numerous options, for example for the layout check or visualization of designs. For example, architects can view and change blueprints directly in the real environment. In industry, too, complex processes can be optimized by AR-based instructions.
3. AI-based information display
By integrating AI, information about objects or locations can be displayed in real time. For example, users can view historical data or current events when looking at a building.
Availability and target group
The Spectacles 5 are currently available primarily for developers and creative people. In the US, they can be subscribed for $99 per month. Snap recently started shipping the glasses in Germany, also initially for developers and creative people.
There is a strategic reason for this restriction: Snap wants to ensure that the glasses are initially used by a community that is actively working on the further development of the AR platform. At the same time, this gives the company the opportunity to collect user feedback and further improve the technology.
Despite the impressive progress, there are still challenges that Snap must overcome. The limited battery life of 45 minutes in standalone operation is an example of the technical limitations that currently exist. Price and availability are also factors that could make widespread market imports difficult.
But the development of Spectacles shows that Snap is ready to address these challenges. The company has positioned itself clearly: AR glasses are not just an experiment, but a central part of the future strategy. With the Spectacles 5, Snap has reached another milestone and laid the foundation for a future in which augmented reality could be an integral part of everyday life.
As Evan Spiegel himself said: “The future of technology lies in merging the physical and digital worlds.” The Spectacles are an impressive step in that direction.
Evan Spiegel is the co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc., the company behind the popular photography app Snapchat. He is known for his vision in the field of augmented reality (AR) and has developed Snapchat into a platform that goes far beyond image sharing. Spiegel sees great potential in AR technologies and is actively involved in their further development, emphasizing that this technology should aim to enrich the real world, not replace it. Snapchat is particularly popular among young users, and according to Spiegel, around 90 percent of 13 to 24 year olds in Germany use the app
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From camera glasses to AR platform: Snap's innovation journey in focus - background analysis
Pioneering work in augmented reality: The development of Snap's Spectacles
The development of Snap's Spectacles augmented reality glasses is a fascinating journey that leads from its beginnings as simple camera glasses to a sophisticated AR platform. This journey reflects not only Snap's spirit of innovation, but also the challenges and potential inherent in developing wearable AR technology.
The early beginnings: More than just a camera
In September 2016, Snap entered the stage with the first generation of Spectacles. These first models were a far cry from what we would call AR glasses today. They were essentially sunglasses with a built-in camera designed to record short videos and share them directly to the Snapchat app. It was a smart move by Snap, allowing users to capture the world from their own perspective and experience that moment in a new, immersive way. The first generation Spectacles weren't a technological marvel, but they were the beginning of a vision, a vision of a future where technology is seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives. They were a first step in changing the way we see and interact with the world.
These first spectacles were a success, especially with the younger target group. They embodied a new approach to social media, one of direct experience and personal expression. The short videos recorded with the Spectacles gave users the feeling of being there live and sharing their experiences with their friends and followers in an authentic way. It was a step away from the perfectly staged content that had previously dominated social media and towards a more natural and spontaneous form of communication. But it was clear from the start that the Spectacles should be more than just a video camera on your head. Snap's vision went far beyond that.
The path to augmented reality: A vision takes shape
After the success of the first generation, Snap continued the development of the Spectacles, even if the subsequent generations did not receive as much attention. The second and third generations brought subtle improvements in design and functionality, but the real turning point came in May 2021. Here, Snap presented the fourth generation of Spectacles, which were significantly different from their predecessors. This version was the first to offer true AR functionality.
This fourth generation was a significant step in the development of the Spectacles. It had built-in displays that could overlay AR content over the real environment. It was a preview of the possibilities that augmented reality can offer, but it was also a testament to how challenging the development of such technology is. The fourth generation was not intended for the mass market, but rather a development tool for selected partners and developers. Snap CEO Evan Spiegel himself expressed cautious optimism at the time, estimating that it would take around another ten years for AR glasses to reach the mainstream. This statement highlights the complexity and challenges associated with developing this technology. The path to mass adoption of AR glasses is a marathon, not a sprint.
This fourth version of the Spectacles essentially served as a test bed for new technologies. Snap used this time to work on perfecting hardware and software. It was a period of intensive research and development during which Snap gained many valuable insights. The fourth generation was a crucial milestone that paved the way for future developments.
The fifth generation: A standalone AR platform
In September 2024, Snap finally presented the fifth generation of Spectacles. This release marks a significant leap forward and demonstrates the rapid development of AR technology. These Spectacles have been significantly further developed and now represent independent AR glasses that no longer necessarily rely on a connected smartphone. They run on the Snap OS operating system developed by Snap and offer a variety of advanced features such as: B. Hand tracking and AI integration.
This fifth generation is not just another product on the market; it is a symbol of Snap's ambitions and commitment to AR. Snap wasn't content with just developing simple camera glasses. Instead, they have focused on a long-term vision of creating a future where AR technology is an integral part of our daily lives. The Spectacles 5 are further proof that Snap is committed to this vision and is continually working to make it a reality.
Technical details: A look under the hood
The Spectacles 5 are impressive in many ways. They weigh 226 grams, which is relatively light for such complex technology, and feature state-of-the-art see-through waveguides with LCoS micro-projectors that enable a transparent image and embed AR content in the real world. The field of view is 46 degrees diagonally, which is sufficient for AR applications. The resolution is 37 pixels per degree, which ensures clear and sharp images. The Spectacles are powered by two Snapdragon chips that deliver the performance required for complex AR applications.
Battery life is 45 minutes in standalone mode, which is a challenge that Snap needs to continue to work on. However, it is an acceptable compromise given the performance and complexity of the glasses. Four tracking cameras (two color cameras and two infrared cameras) allow the glasses to precisely capture their surroundings and place AR content accordingly. A 6-axis IMU and GPS ensure accurate positioning and motion tracking. Connectivity is ensured by WiFi 6 and Bluetooth.
However, the hardware alone is not everything. The software is just as important, if not more important, to the overall experience. Snap OS, the Spectacles' operating system, offers an intuitive user interface and enables seamless integration of AR content. It was developed specifically for the requirements of augmented reality and is a crucial factor in the success of Spectacles 5.
Functions and operation: A new way of interaction
The Spectacles 5 offer a range of features that enable a completely new user experience. Hand gesture and voice control make it possible to interact with the glasses without having to touch them. This is particularly useful when moving around in an AR environment or when your hands are otherwise occupied. The integration of AR content into the real environment allows users to place virtual objects in their environment and interact with them, enabling a completely new dimension of interaction.
Multiplayer AR experiences make it possible to experience AR content together with other glasses wearers, enabling a new form of social interaction. Imagine playing an AR game with your friends who are in the same or different physical environment, or working on an AR project together. The possibilities are endless. An AI assistant supports interactions and content creation, making the glasses even more versatile and user-friendly. Compatibility with Snapchat and dedicated AR applications ensures a wide range of content and applications are available. The Spectacles 5 are more than just a piece of technology; they are a portal to a new way of interaction and communication.
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Areas of application: Explore the world of augmented reality
The possible uses of the Spectacles 5 are diverse and go far beyond entertainment. Developers and partners such as OpenAI, ILM, Niantic and Lego are working on various applications for the glasses. Gaming and interactive experiences are an obvious application, but the Spectacles also have the potential to be used in productive environments. Layout reviews in architecture and engineering can be simplified and improved through AR visualizations.
AI-powered information display and object recognition enable users to obtain information about their surroundings. Imagine walking through a city and being able to get information about buildings, shops or landmarks displayed directly to you through your glasses. The Spectacles 5 can not only show us the world, but also help us understand it better. This technology has the potential to transform many aspects of our lives, from education to work to leisure. The areas of application are far from exhausted, and with each new generation and each new partner the possibilities become more and more diverse.
Availability and price: An investment in the future
The Spectacles 5 are currently available primarily for developers and creative people. This decision by Snap is deliberate to advance the development of AR content and receive feedback from those who can best use the technology. In the US, the Spectacles 5 can be subscribed for $99 per month, which is a relatively affordable price compared to other AR glasses on the market. Shipping recently started in Germany, also initially for developers and creative people. The strategy is clear: First, the technology should be in the hands of those who can do the most with it.
The limited battery life and the immature state of the software are limitations that Snap is aware of. However, Snap is also aware that this technology is still in its early stages and is continually being developed. The Spectacles 5 are proof that AR glasses have a bright future.
The Spectacles 5 are not just a product; they are an investment in the future of mobile technology. They are a symbol of the unstoppable progress of technology and the endless possibilities that augmented reality can offer us. Snap has proven that they are not just a social media company, but also a leading innovator in augmented reality. The Spectacles journey is far from over and we can't wait to see what the future holds. Snap is working hard to democratize AR technology and make it accessible to a wider audience.
Snap's role in the AR revolution
Snap's commitment to augmented reality is deep and long-term. The company has invested not only in the development of the Spectacles, but also in the development of AR software and platforms. With Snap Lens Studio, Snap offers a powerful environment for developers to create their own AR effects. The Snapchat app itself is one of the most widely used AR platforms worldwide, enabling millions of people to experience augmented reality in everyday life.
Snap has made a name for itself through its innovations in augmented reality. The Spectacles' success is a testament to Snap's commitment and vision. They are pioneers in the AR field and are driving the development of this technology. The fifth generation of Spectacles is an impressive example of how far AR technology has come and how much potential it still has. Snap has a clear vision that AR technology will transform the way we interact with the world, and they continue to invest in making this vision a reality.
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The future of AR glasses: what awaits us?
The future of AR glasses looks promising. It is expected that the technology will continue to improve in the coming years and that AR glasses will become an everyday item. The challenges of battery life, weight and usability will be solved by new developments in materials science and semiconductor technology. It is likely that AR glasses will one day replace or at least complement our smartphones. They will allow us to access information, interact with our environment and communicate with other people anytime and anywhere.
The Spectacles 5 of Snap are an important step in this way. They are not only a product, but also a symbol of the future of technology. They show us that the future of augmented reality has already started and that the possibilities are endless. The developments of SNAP are forward -looking. The Spectacles 5 show the potential of AR glasses for the future of mobile technology, which are already being developed with the vision of tomorrow.
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