Snap Inc. is gearing up to launch its first commercially available augmented reality (AR) glasses, simply named Specs, in 2026. 
This announcement was made at the Augmented World Expo (AWE) 2025 in Long Beach, California, marking a significant step beyond their previous Spectacles 5, which were limited to developers enrolled in a pricey $99/month program.
CEO Evan Spiegel expressed enthusiasm about this next chapter, stating that the new Specs represent “the most advanced personal computer in the world,” designed to seamlessly blend digital content with the physical environment through see-through lenses. While Snap hasn’t shared many technical details yet, they emphasized over $3 billion invested in AR glasses development over the past 11 years, showing serious commitment to this evolving tech.
Alongside the Specs reveal, Snap announced major updates to Snap OS, including tighter integration with AI platforms like OpenAI and Google’s Gemini on Google Cloud. New developer tools such as Fleet Management, Guided Mode, and Guided Navigation aim to enrich location-based AR experiences. Plus, Snap is working with Niantic Spatial to incorporate an AI-powered visual positioning system into Lens Studio and Specs, promising smarter and more immersive AR maps.
Though the AR glasses space is still emerging, Snap’s public launch of Specs signals confidence that AR is ready to move from niche to mainstream. Yet, some remain skeptical, debating the practicality and design of these devices amid concerns about their aesthetics and potential social implications of AR technology.