Snap has launched pre-orders for its new augmented reality glasses, “Specs,” in a move that bets on integrating artificial intelligence and augmented reality applications into users’ daily lives, and reducing permanent dependence on smartphones.
The price of the glasses is $2,195, with the requirement to pay a refundable deposit of $200, with shipments to begin next fall in the United States, Britain, and France.
The glasses come with transparent screens that provide a field of vision of 51 degrees and support about 16 million colors. “Specs” are available in two sizes: 47 and 52 mm, with a weight of 132 and 136 grams, respectively.
On the technical level, the glasses operate with two “Snapdragon” processors, include adaptive “Electrochromic” lenses, and allow users to control them via voice commands and hand movements, while the battery provides sufficient power for up to 4 hours of mixed use, with a charging case capable of providing 4 additional charges.
On the other hand, weight and design standards may pose a real challenge for long-term use. PCMag tests indicated that the arms of the glasses seemed to put pressure on the ears, which was clearly evident during the presentation when the ears of Snap CEO, Evan Spiegel, bent under the pressure of the device.
The company intends to provide a special version of the charging case that supports Wi-Fi and cellular networks, bringing the cost of the package in the American market to $2,395, which gives the glasses greater independence from mobile phones.
The list of glasses’ functions includes providing directions during navigation, instant translation between 60 languages, displaying digital objects and virtual workspaces around the user, in addition to making calls, playing music, and making video calls via the “Snapchat” application.
In conjunction with the launch of the device, the company revealed a new artificial intelligence service called “Specs Intelligence,” specifically directed to “Specs” glasses, “iPhone” and “Mac” devices. “Snap” defines the system as “proactive” artificial intelligence, designed to help users manage their daily tasks, such as meetings, dinner plans, travel, and to-do lists, without waiting for questions to be asked.
With the high price starting at $2,195 and the heavy weight compared to traditional glasses, Snap faces a major challenge: convincing consumers that the advanced features of augmented reality and artificial intelligence justify wearing a device of this size and cost for hours on end every day.
