Snap has begun accepting pre-orders for its autonomous augmented reality (AR) glasses, called Specs, which are set to launch in France this autumn. These glasses, developed by Snap—the parent company of the popular messaging app Snapchat—are described as the first fully autonomous AR glasses, meaning they do not require a smartphone or computer to function. All processing is done by Qualcomm chips embedded in the frames. The Specs include transparent optics, a 51-degree diagonal field of view, four hours of battery life in mixed use, two cameras for hand tracking, and a home system called Snap OS that runs AR applications known as Lenses. These features are managed by an AI assistant called Snap Intelligence, which aims to go beyond the capabilities of traditional smart glasses. The Specs weigh 134 grams, which is heavier than regular glasses but much lighter than most extended reality (XR) headsets. Snap offers two frame sizes—47 mm and 52 mm—to better fit different face shapes. The glasses use a double vapor chamber for thermal management and include removable optical inserts for users who need corrective lenses, covering up to -8 diopters. Electrochromic lenses can darken to function as sunglasses, eliminating the need for separate sunglasses. A side button allows users to take photos and videos, and an LED light alerts others when the camera is active, addressing privacy concerns. The Specs achieve their 51-degree field of view using a double binocular waveguide system. While this is narrower than the field of view in the Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro—both of which exceed 110 degrees—those devices are opaque headsets that reconstruct the environment using cameras. The Specs’ field of view represents a balance between optical performance and the practicality of a consumer product. However, promotional materials suggest more AR content is available than what the user can actually see, hinting at a mismatch between the claimed and actual display capabilities. The display’s refresh rate is not disclosed, which is notable as other XR systems typically operate at least 72 frames per second. Snap OS, the operating system for the Specs, is described as a true spatial OS, similar to Apple’s VisionOS. It creates a real-time 3D map of the environment, allowing virtual objects to appear behind real ones. The system can anchor windows in space so they follow the user’s movements, and a "travel mode" promises to stabilize the display in moving vehicles. Interaction is based on hand tracking with a pointing and pinching system, though eye tracking is absent, which could have made selecting elements on the screen more intuitive. Overall, the interaction feels less precise and intuitive compared to other XR devices like the Vision Pro or Meta VR Glasses. Snap highlights several practical AR experiences, such as real-time live subtitles in 60 languages, an integration with TripAdvisor that overlays store reviews and historical information, and an augmented reality Harry Potter experience from HBO. The company also promises multiplayer shared experiences that can involve up to 30 people, according to Snap’s CEO, Evan Spiegel. Snap has partnered with Amazon and Nvidia and has launched a dedicated program for businesses looking to integrate the Specs into their operations. The Specs also include an AI assistant called Snap Intelligence, which operates on Mac and iPhone as well as the glasses. This AI is divided into three components: Portrait, which manages the user's routines and contacts; Corners, which organizes different areas of the user’s life; and Goals, which tracks long-term objectives. Snap has stated it will not use data from the assistant to train generative AI or for advertising, although this remains a stated commitment rather than a verified policy. The Specs provide up to four hours of battery life in mixed use, with an optional charging case that can add up to four more charges, extending the total battery life to about 20 hours. The case also includes a cellular connection, allowing the glasses to operate independently of Wi-Fi and smartphones. Snap has partnered with Verizon in the U.S. and other carriers for data plans. Currently, the Specs are not aimed at the general public but rather at developers, companies interested in Snap’s dedicated program, and AR enthusiasts willing to accept the imperfections of a new product category. Pre-orders are open, starting at €2,295, with delivery expected in France, the United States, and the United Kingdom this autumn.