The social media platform launched its new fifth-generation glasses during the 2024 Snapchat Partner Summit.
The augmented reality glasses are designed with keeping developers in mind.
The new Snap glasses now feature enhanced AR experiences with better digital graphics. It packs two Snapdragon processors, 37 pixels per degree of resolution, and a diagonal field of view of 46 degrees. The battery life of the AR glasses is long providing up to 45 minutes of watch time in a go.
One more advanced feature is the custom proprietary operating system of the company, Snap OS. With incredible capacity and performance, this OS enhances the user experience.
Snap has tied up with OpenAI and through this tie-up, the developers have been able to integrate advanced AI features in the glasses.
While interacting with the developers, the CEO of Snap, Evan Spiegel said, "We're excited to see what developers create using these new tools, which highlights the enormous prospect in this tie-up.
This puts Snap square in the face of Meta's AR products. The timing of this launch ahead of Meta's Connect may even boast strategic mobilizations toward hijacking as much market position as possible.
However, previous versions of Spectacles had defects that led to a write-off of US$40 million worth of unsold stock. Q2 2023 also witnessed Snap take on a US$4.5 billion loss. Principal analyst at CCS Insight, Leo Gebbie, said Snap needs to present "really impressive" features to stay in the lead ahead of Meta’s AR.
So far, the fifth generation of Snapchat AR glasses is only accessible to developers. Developers can opt for the specs at US$99 per month for a minimum period of one year. So far, there have been no releases planned which are public.
Launched during the summit were lots of new Snapchat AI features for creators. These include having an option of toggling between making the profiles private or public for users who are above 16 years old. The Lip Syncing Lens for syncing up with thousands of tracks and the NYX Beauty Bestie Lens for custom beauty looks. The new Snap Star Collab Studio feature also helps creators connect with brands.