Six months after the launch of its fifth-generation Spectacles and the second version equipped with augmented reality (AR) capabilities, Snap has rolled out a series of innovative features and functionalities. These enhancements aim to elevate the user experience, particularly in navigation, gaming, and text entry, making the Spectacles a more versatile tool for developers and users alike.
One of the standout features introduced is the ability for Lenses—Snap's term for the various AR effects—to leverage GPS data for improved navigation. This functionality opens up new possibilities for users, including simple navigation features and engaging multiplayer gaming experiences. By utilizing location data such as GPS, GNSS, and compass headings, users can enjoy a more immersive experience while exploring their surroundings.
As part of this announcement, Snap showcased demos of Lenses utilizing these new capabilities. For instance, Utopia Labs’ NavigatAR creates visible arrows directing users toward their desired destinations. Another innovative lens, Path Pioneer, empowers developers to design AR walking courses with waypoints, making it an ideal tool for city tours, museums, and art galleries.
In a significant update to its Peridot Beyond game, Niantic has integrated multiplayer features enabled by access to location data. This update allows users to see and interact with AR versions of their own Dot characters alongside their friends’ characters in real-time. Additionally, developers can now incorporate leaderboards into AR games, encouraging players to return and attempt to beat their previous high scores.
Another noteworthy addition is the introduction of an AR keyboard, which features a comprehensive full and numeric layout. This new keyboard benefits from enhancements in hand tracking, improving targeting precision and reducing false positives while typing. Users can enjoy a seamless typing experience without the need to pull out their connected smartphones.
The AR keyboard also includes a new grab gesture that can be utilized in various Lens experiences, and the updated hand tracking recognizes when users are holding their smartphones. These advancements facilitate a more interactive and user-friendly experience.
Despite these exciting updates, Snap has yet to announce a consumer version of its AR Spectacles. Currently, the fifth-generation Spectacles, which have a limited battery life of only 45 minutes, are exclusively available to developers. Interested developers must apply for access through the company’s Lens Studio desktop tool, with a rental price set at $99 per month, requiring a commitment of at least one year.
As Snap continues to innovate and expand the capabilities of its AR Spectacles, the tech community eagerly anticipates future consumer-friendly versions that may bring these groundbreaking features to a broader audience.
