Snap unveiled its new AR Specs at AWE 2026, but CEO Evan Spiegel is keen to clarify that this is not just another pair of smartglasses. In an exclusive interview with Engadget, Spiegel emphasized the concept of a "see-through computer," a device that overlays computing onto the real world. This approach redefines the entire category, moving away from traditional AI glasses used for recording video.
Specs will be priced at $2,195, significantly higher than competitors, but Spiegel argues the value lies in its computational power. According to the CEO, the goal is to make computing more human by bringing it out of the screen and integrating it into the environment. The company aims to reduce costs over time to make the device more accessible.
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Privacy and Parental Controls
In an era of growing distrust toward smart glasses, Snap has integrated strict privacy features. Spiegel stated that facial recognition is not allowed in Lenses, thanks to a moderated developer ecosystem. Additionally, for parents who want to share Specs with their teens, a toggle in the app limits the available Lenses. This ties into broader discussions on child safety, as highlighted in our article on iRobot and data protection.
Refined Design and Competition
The design of Specs has been improved over the 2024 developer version: lenses are slimmer and rounder, though the arms remain thick. During the interview, Spiegel wore the device, allowing observers to see the lenses that darken completely like sunglasses. The company is not offering demos yet, but early impressions are positive. Competition is fierce, with Meta recently removing an unauthorized facial recognition feature from its Ray-Ban glasses. Snap aims to differentiate through an ethical approach and transparency.
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For more on augmented reality, see the Wikipedia page on augmented reality. Ultimately, Snap Specs represents a bold step toward a new computing paradigm where the line between physical and digital worlds blurs.
Source: https://www.engadget.com/2195862/snap-specs-ceo-evan-spiegel-interview-at-awe-2026
