While not technically a full release, Snap Inc. has announced the availability of its latest iteration of Spectacles. Spectacles '24, as they are known, leverage the company's AR know-how and a healthy dose of AI for good measure. Spectacles '24 represents Snap Inc.'s continued effort to help users "Get closer with friends."

Powered by Snap OS, Spectacles '24 introduces features not found in previous versions. The ability to take snaps is still present, but Spectacles '24 is also a standalone AR headset with "My AI" used to launch built-in immersive applications. Two Snapdragon processors power the AR capabilities; Snap Inc. has not disclosed which ones, two full-color high-resolution cameras, two infrared computer vision cameras, and a 6-axis inertial sensor. The glasses also have WiFi 6 and Bluetooth built-in. Notably, the glasses are built to be used outdoors and feature lenses that auto-dim when exposed to bright light.

With a 45-minute runtime, users can try many different experiences through their spectacles. Snap has included many expected features of AR headsets, including AR games, Web browsing, video watching, and the ability to augment your surroundings with 3D objects. However, extended functionality is available when users pair the glasses with the Spectacles App. With the app, users can mirror their phone display or even use their phone as a controller for Snap OS. Spectacles '24 even addresses the loneliness that often accompanies using AR glasses by letting others see what the user sees through the paired phone.

It is clear that Snap Inc. is invested in developing a wearable with mass appeal.Offering Spectacles '24 exclusively to developers for a $99 monthly subscription is potentially the answer to developing a consumer-ready product with the right blend of features to entice users. Aside from the first Spectacles release, Snap Inc. has been plagued by low sales numbers, excess inventory, and high return rates. However, the features found in this latest release offer a promising start to future change