Snap gets closer to releasing new AI glasses after years-long hiatus

Snap has partnered with Qualcomm to advance its AI glasses, Specs, after years of development. This partnership aims to enhance the product with on-device AI and advanced graphics. The brand plans to release these glasses later this year, marking a notable return after the last consumer version was released in 2019, amidst past operational challenges.

Key Points

• Snap announced a new partnership with Qualcomm to develop Specs, its AR glasses.
• The partnership focuses on integrating Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR platforms.
• The Specs project had been stalled since 2019 when the last consumer version was released.
• Snap has been working towards releasing Specifications as a developer-only product since 2024.
• CEO Evan Spiegel emphasized the strategic significance of this partnership for future developments.

Relevance

• The trend of integrating AI in wearable technology is on the rise, reflecting broader 2025 IT trends.
• Qualcomm’s technology is pivotal as companies explore the potentials of AR and VR, indicating growing competition in this space.
• Understanding past struggles with Specs helps contextualize Snap's current strategic moves in tech innovations and partnerships.

This collaboration with Qualcomm indicates a renewed commitment from Snap to innovate in the wearable space, potentially reshaping the market for AR glasses after a prolonged hiatus.