CALIFORNIA: Snap Inc has unveiled its new augmented reality glasses, SPECS AR Glasses, at the Augmented World Expo 2026, positioning the device as a major leap toward blending digital experiences with the physical world.

Designed to merge AI assistance, entertainment, work tools and shared experiences into everyday surroundings, SPECS aim to reduce screen dependency and bring computing into natural human context. The company said the goal is to make technology “fade into the background” while keeping users engaged with people and places around them.

At the launch, Snap Inc emphasised that SPECS represent more than hardware, describing them as a long-term step towards computing that understands sight, sound and environment rather than relying on taps and text.

The glasses are fully standalone, feature lightweight frames and use advanced waveguide and display systems to project large, vivid visuals into the user’s field of view. Snap claims the experience can scale from a desktop-sized workspace to a cinema-like display, while maintaining awareness of the real world.

Developers are already building experiences using Lens Studio, with hundreds of interactive “Lenses” spanning learning, collaboration and entertainment. The company also announced new development tools, including integrations with AI coding systems such as Claude Code, Codex and Cursor, aimed at accelerating creation for the AR ecosystem.

Snap said SPECS are powered by its upgraded Snap OS and include features such as fast hand tracking, low-latency interaction and AI that can interpret what users are seeing in real time.

On privacy, the company stressed that SPECS include visible recording indicators, clear permissions and on-device processing to ensure user control over data and usage.

Speaking at the launch, Ajit Mohan said the evolution of computing is moving from screens to spatial awareness, adding that AI and AR together can make technology more contextual, helpful and human-centred.

The launch was accompanied by a global creative campaign shot by Steven Meisel and featuring personalities including Jimmy Butler, Imogen Heap, Hoyeon, Jack Harlow and Kaia Gerber, signalling a push to position SPECS as both a tech platform and a cultural product.

With pre-orders now open via SPECS Official Site, Snap is betting that augmented reality will be the next major computing platform, shifting users from screens to spatial experiences. The company believes the future of technology is not about looking down, but looking up and engaging with the world itself.