Developers can create games and navigation in Spectacles AR glasses by Snapchat
Snapchat has released a new update for its AR glasses designed for developers. The new features include GPS support and improved hand tracking.
Here's What We Know
Developers can now create interactive experiences such as walking routes, navigation, fitness tracking, and games. In addition, improved hand tracking allows for interaction with virtual objects and improves typing on the AR keyboard. New features also include support for ratings and opening links to Lenses directly from notifications.
The fifth generation of Spectacles, due out in September 2024, is still focused on developers. To get access to these AR glasses, developers must pay $99 per month on a one-year contract, which is worth about $1,200 for a year of testing.
The glasses are still heavy and bulky, and apparently too expensive for Snap to release to consumers. These are standalone AR glasses similar to what Meta is developing. They run on Snap OS and the Snap Spatial Engine, allowing you to create augmented reality or Lenses that overlay the real world.
The glasses have four cameras, Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, and microprojectors with a runtime of up to 45 minutes before needing to be recharged.
Apple was also working on its own augmented reality glasses, but cancelled one of the developments in January 2025. Companies like Meta and Snap that already have devices available are likely to release their products before Apple.
Source: Snapchat
