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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image =
|image=[[File:snap spectacles21.jpg|350px]]
|VR/AR = [[Wearable]]
|VR/AR=[[Augmented Reality]]
|Type = [[Smart glasses]]
|Type=[[AR Glasses]]
|Subtype = Camera glasses (Snapchat)
|Subtype=[[Phone-Powered AR]]
|Platform = iOS, Android
|Platform=[[Snapchat]]
|Creator = [[Snap Inc.]]
|Creator=
|Announced = April 2018
|Developer=[[Snap Inc.]]
|Release = 2018
|Manufacturer=[[Snap Inc.]]
|Price = $149-$199
|Announcement Date=April 26, 2018
|Website = https://www.spectacles.com
|Release Date=April 26, 2018
|OS = Proprietary
|Price=$149.99
|CPU = Embedded
|Website=https://www.spectacles.com/
|GPU =
|Versions=Onyx, Ruby, Sapphire
|Storage = 150 videos / 3000 photos
|Requires=iPhone 7 or above running iOS 11+, Select Android devices running Android 6+
|RAM =
|Predecessor=[[Snap Spectacles]]
|Display = None (camera only)
|Successor=[[Snap Spectacles 3]]
|Resolution =
|Operating System=
|Refresh =
|Chipset=
|Brightness =
|CPU=
|FOV =
|GPU=
|PPD =
|HPU=
|Lenses = Sunglass lenses (polarized/mirrored options)
|Storage=4GB flash
|IPD =
|Memory=
|Eye Tracking =
|SD Card Slot=No
|Hand Tracking =
|Display=No display (camera only)
|Tracking =
|Subpixel Layout=
|Spatial Mapping =
|Peak Brightness=
|Speakers = None
|Resolution=1216 x 1216 (video), 1642 x 1642 (photos)
|Microphone = Yes
|Refresh Rate=60 fps
|Audio Jack =
|Pixel Density=
|Connectivity = Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct
|Persistence=
|Ports = Charging case
|Precision=
|Battery = 70+ videos per charge
|Field of View=105° (camera)
|Weight = Lightweight
|Horizontal FoV=
|Materials = Water resistant
|Vertical FoV=
|Colors = Onyx, Ruby, Sapphire (+ Nico/Veronica styles)
|Visible FoV=
|Sensors = 115° HD camera
|Rendered FoV=
|Input = Physical button
|Binocular Overlap=
|Average Pixel Density=
|Peak Pixel Density=
|Foveated Rendering=
|Optics=
|Ocularity=
|IPD Range=
|Adjustable Diopter=
|Passthrough=
|Tracking=
|Tracking Frequency=
|Base Stations=
|Eye Tracking=No
|Face Tracking=No
|Hand Tracking=No
|Body Tracking=No
|Rotational Tracking=
|Positional Tracking=
|Update Rate=
|Tracking Volume=
|Play Space=
|Latency=
|Audio=Dual microphones
|Microphone=Yes (2 microphones)
|3.5mm Audio Jack=No
|Camera=Single HD camera
|Connectivity=Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi
|Ports=Proprietary charging pins
|Wired Video=No
|Wireless Video=Yes (via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi to smartphone)
|WiFi=Yes
|Bluetooth=Yes (5.0)
|Power=Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
|Battery Capacity=
|Battery Life=Up to 70 videos or 150 photos per charge
|Charge Time=
|Dimensions=
|Weight=Lighter than V1
|Material=Plastic frame
|Headstrap=N/A
|Haptics=No
|Color=Onyx (Midnight/Eclipse lenses), Ruby (Daybreak/Sunset lenses), Sapphire (Midnight/Twilight lenses)
|Sensors=
|Input=Single button for recording/photos
|Compliance=Water resistant (not waterproof)
|Size=
|Cable Length=
}}
}}


The '''Snap Spectacles 2''' are camera-equipped [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Snap Inc.]], released in 2018 as an improved successor to the original Spectacles. Priced from $149-$199, the Spectacles 2 feature a 115-degree wide-angle camera that records circular HD video (10 or 30 seconds) and photos, with improved water resistance for pool and beach use. The glasses sync wirelessly with Snapchat for easy sharing in circular, square, or widescreen formats. Design improvements include lighter frames, additional color options, mirrored lens variants, and removal of the yellow camera ring for a more discreet appearance. Later in 2018, Snap released Nico and Veronica designer style variants.<ref name="snap">{{cite web|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spectacles_(product)|title=Spectacles|publisher=Wikipedia}}</ref>
__TOC__
==Introduction==


== History and Development ==
The '''Snap Spectacles 2''' (also known as '''Spectacles V2''' or '''Spectacles 2.0''') are the second generation of [[smart glasses]] developed by [[Snap Inc.]], announced and released on April 26, 2018. Building upon the foundation of the original [[Snap Spectacles|Spectacles]], this version introduced several key improvements including the ability to capture photos, water resistance, a more refined design, and faster syncing capabilities.<ref name="techcrunch">https://techcrunch.com/2018/04/26/snapchat-spectacles-2/</ref>


=== Original Spectacles (2016) ===
The second generation addressed many of the pain points from the original model while maintaining the core concept of fashionable sunglasses that capture moments from a first-person perspective for sharing on [[Snapchat]].<ref name="techradar">https://www.techradar.com/reviews/snapchat-spectacles-2</ref>
First-generation camera glasses caused social media phenomenon.


=== Spectacles 2 (April 2018) ===
==Development and Release==
Improved design with water resistance and lighter frames.


=== Nico & Veronica (2018) ===
Following the mixed reception of the first generation Spectacles, which resulted in a $40 million write-off of unsold inventory, Snap Inc. took a more measured approach with the V2 release. The company was "more coy about sales numbers" and focused on fixing the biggest issues from V1.<ref name="bolt">https://blog.bolt.io/the-evolution-of-snap-spectacles-pt-i-craft-reveals-conviction/</ref>
Designer style variants released later in 2018.


== Design and Hardware ==
Unlike the viral [[Snapbot]] vending machine distribution of the first generation, Spectacles 2 were sold exclusively online through Snap's website at launch. This allowed the company to better track demand and avoid overproduction.<ref name="wareable">https://www.wareable.com/wearable-tech/snapchat-snap-spectacles-2-release-date-specs-price-2018</ref>


=== Camera ===
==Hardware Specifications==
* '''Field of View:''' 115 degrees (wide angle)
* '''Video:''' HD circular format
* '''Duration:''' 10-second clips, extendable to 30 seconds
* '''Photos:''' Hold button to capture stills


=== Improved Design ===
===Design Improvements===
* Lighter frames than Gen 1
The Spectacles 2 featured a significantly more understated design compared to the bright, playful colors of the first generation:
* Removed yellow camera ring
* '''Frame''': Thinner, lighter plastic frame with more sophisticated styling<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* More discreet appearance
* '''Colors''': Three frame options with two lens variations each:
* Additional style options
** '''Onyx''': Black frame with Midnight or Eclipse lenses
** '''Ruby''': Red frame with Daybreak or Sunset lenses 
** '''Sapphire''': Blue frame with Midnight or Twilight lenses<ref name="techradar"></ref>
* '''Indicator Light''': Removed the permanent yellow ring around the camera; only white LEDs display while recording<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* '''Prescription Lenses''': Partnership with [[Lensabl]] for prescription lens options<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>


=== Water Resistance ===
===Camera and Media Capture===
* Pool and beach rated
* '''Photo Capability''': New ability to capture still photos (hold button to snap)<ref name="wareable"></ref>
* Shallow underwater photo/video capable
* '''Video Resolution''': 1216 x 1216 pixels at 60fps<ref name="newsweek">https://www.newsweek.com/snapchat-spectacles-v2-how-buy-where-get-price-903068</ref>
* Improved durability
* '''Photo Resolution''': 1642 x 1642 pixels<ref name="wareable"></ref>
* '''Field of View''': Reduced from 115° to 105° to minimize fish-eye warping<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* '''Storage''': 4GB internal storage (up to 150 videos or 3,000 photos)<ref name="wareable"></ref>


=== Lens Options ===
===Connectivity and Performance===
* Standard lenses
* '''Transfer Speed''': 4x faster than V1 (average 10-second video transfers in 3 seconds vs 9 seconds)<ref name="wareable"></ref>
* Polarized options
* '''Syncing''': Improved process requiring only Bluetooth and a 7-second button press (no QR code scan)<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* Mirrored variants
* '''HD Transfer''': All exports now happen in HD over internal Wi-Fi<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* '''Auto-sync''': Automatic transfer to Snapchat when connected to home Wi-Fi<ref name="wareable"></ref>


== Recording ==
===Durability===
* '''Water Resistance''': Can withstand pool jumps and rain (not recommended for deep diving)<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* '''Build Quality''': More durable construction than V1<ref name="wareable"></ref>


=== Video Capture ===
==Software Updates==
* Single press: 10-second video
* Press again: Extend to 30 seconds
* LED ring indicates recording


=== Photo Mode ===
In June 2018, Snap released an update allowing users to export videos from the glasses in square or widescreen format, addressing user feedback about the circular video format.<ref name="wikipedia">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spectacles_(product)</ref>
Hold button to capture photo.


=== Circular Format ===
A later Snapchat update allowed Snaps to be exported without the 'fisheye' look, which was one of the biggest complaints from users.<ref name="techradar"></ref>
* Unique circular video format
* Optimized for mobile viewing
* Shareable in multiple aspect ratios


== Storage and Battery ==
==Pricing and Availability==


=== Internal Storage ===
* '''Launch Price''': $149.99 (USD) - $20 more than the original<ref name="newsweek"></ref>
* Up to 150 videos
* '''What's Included''': Spectacles, charging case, charging cable<ref name="newsweek"></ref>
* Up to 3,000 photos
* '''Distribution''': Initially sold only on Spectacles.com; no Amazon availability at launch<ref name="newsweek"></ref>
* Before requiring transfer
* '''Markets''': Initially U.S., Canada, U.K., and France, expanding to 13 more European countries on May 3, 2018<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>


=== Battery Life ===
==Reception==
* Up to 70 videos per charge
* Charging case provides 4x recharges


== Syncing and Sharing ==
The Spectacles 2 received mixed reviews:


=== Wireless Transfer ===
===Improvements Praised===
* Bluetooth sync with phone
* More sophisticated, wearable design
* Automatic when phone nearby
* Addition of photo capability
* Wi-Fi Direct for faster transfers
* Significantly faster syncing
* Water resistance
* Better build quality


=== Snapchat Integration ===
===Continuing Limitations===
* Direct to Memories
* Still limited to Snapchat ecosystem
* Share to Stories
* Filters and effects can only be added post-capture
* Multiple format options (circular/square/wide)
* Continuous upload still not seamless
* Higher price point
* Limited battery life remained an issue<ref name="wareable"></ref>


=== Export Formats ===
Despite improvements, the glasses still struggled to find a mass market. VP of hardware Mark Randall acknowledged that while the company felt "pretty good about shipping 220,000 pairs" of V1, V2 sales were not expected to be dramatically different.<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* Circular (native)
* Square
* Widescreen


== Compatibility ==
==Legacy==


=== iOS ===
The Spectacles 2 represented an important iterative step in Snap's hardware journey. By addressing the most glaring issues from V1 while maintaining a reasonable price point, Snap demonstrated commitment to the long-term vision of wearable AR technology despite initial setbacks.<ref name="bolt"></ref>
iPhone 5 and later, iOS 8+.


=== Android ===
The lessons learned from V2's more refined approach to both design and distribution would inform the company's bold leap to dual-camera 3D capture in [[Snap Spectacles 3|Spectacles 3]] the following year.
Android 4.3+, requires BLE and Wi-Fi Direct.


== Models and Colors ==
==Images==
[[File:snap spectacles21.jpg|400px]]


=== Standard Colors ===
[[File:snap spectacles22.jpg|400px]]
* Onyx (black)
==See Also==
* Ruby (red)
* Sapphire (blue)
 
=== Designer Variants ===
* Nico style
* Veronica style
* Alternative fashion designs
 
== Comparison: Gen 1 vs Gen 2 ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! Spectacles 1 !! Spectacles 2
|-
| Water Resistant || No || Yes
|-
| Yellow Ring || Yes || Removed
|-
| Weight || Heavier || Lighter
|-
| Photos || No || Yes
|-
| Styles || 3 || 5+
|}
 
== Specifications ==
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Specification !! Details
|-
| Camera || 115° HD wide-angle
|-
| Video || 10-30 second clips
|-
| Format || Circular HD
|-
| Storage || 150 videos / 3000 photos
|-
| Battery || 70+ videos/charge
|-
| Case Charges || 4x additional
|-
| Water Resistant || Yes (shallow water)
|-
| Sync || Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct
|-
| Platforms || iOS, Android
|-
| Price || $149-$199
|}
 
== See Also ==
* [[Snap Inc.]]
* [[Snap Spectacles]]
* [[Snap Spectacles]]
* [[Snap Spectacles 3]]
* [[Snapchat]]
* [[Snapchat]]
* [[Camera glasses]]
* [[Augmented Reality]]
* [[Social media wearables]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]


== References ==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
<references>
<ref name="techcrunch">https://techcrunch.com/2018/04/26/snapchat-spectacles-2/</ref>
<ref name="techradar">https://www.techradar.com/reviews/snapchat-spectacles-2</ref>
<ref name="bolt">https://blog.bolt.io/the-evolution-of-snap-spectacles-pt-i-craft-reveals-conviction/</ref>
<ref name="wareable">https://www.wareable.com/wearable-tech/snapchat-snap-spectacles-2-release-date-specs-price-2018</ref>
<ref name="newsweek">https://www.newsweek.com/snapchat-spectacles-v2-how-buy-where-get-price-903068</ref>
<ref name="wikipedia">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spectacles_(product)</ref>
</references>


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Smart glasses]]
[[Category:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Camera glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Snap Inc.]]
[[Category:Snap Inc.]]
[[Category:Snapchat]]
[[Category:2018 in Technology]]
[[Category:Social media devices]]
[[Category:2010s wearables]]

Latest revision as of 22:28, 7 January 2026

Snap Spectacles 2
Basic Info
VR/AR Augmented Reality
Type AR Glasses
Subtype Phone-Powered AR
Platform Snapchat
Developer Snap Inc.
Manufacturer Snap Inc.
Announcement Date April 26, 2018
Release Date April 26, 2018
Price $149.99
Website https://www.spectacles.com/
Versions Onyx, Ruby, Sapphire
Requires iPhone 7 or above running iOS 11+, Select Android devices running Android 6+
Predecessor Snap Spectacles
Successor Snap Spectacles 3
System
Storage
Storage 4GB flash
SD Card Slot No
Display
Display No display (camera only)
Resolution 1216 x 1216 (video), 1642 x 1642 (photos)
Refresh Rate 60 fps
Image
Field of View 105° (camera)
Optics
Tracking
Eye Tracking No
Face Tracking No
Hand Tracking No
Body Tracking No
Audio
Audio Dual microphones
Microphone Yes (2 microphones)
3.5mm Audio Jack No
Camera Single HD camera
Connectivity
Connectivity Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi
Ports Proprietary charging pins
Wired Video No
Wireless Video Yes (via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi to smartphone)
WiFi Yes
Bluetooth Yes (5.0)
Power Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Battery Life Up to 70 videos or 150 photos per charge
Device
Weight Lighter than V1
Material Plastic frame
Headstrap N/A
Haptics No
Color Onyx (Midnight/Eclipse lenses), Ruby (Daybreak/Sunset lenses), Sapphire (Midnight/Twilight lenses)
Input Single button for recording/photos
Compliance Water resistant (not waterproof)


Introduction

The Snap Spectacles 2 (also known as Spectacles V2 or Spectacles 2.0) are the second generation of smart glasses developed by Snap Inc., announced and released on April 26, 2018. Building upon the foundation of the original Spectacles, this version introduced several key improvements including the ability to capture photos, water resistance, a more refined design, and faster syncing capabilities.[1]

The second generation addressed many of the pain points from the original model while maintaining the core concept of fashionable sunglasses that capture moments from a first-person perspective for sharing on Snapchat.[2]

Development and Release

Following the mixed reception of the first generation Spectacles, which resulted in a $40 million write-off of unsold inventory, Snap Inc. took a more measured approach with the V2 release. The company was "more coy about sales numbers" and focused on fixing the biggest issues from V1.[3]

Unlike the viral Snapbot vending machine distribution of the first generation, Spectacles 2 were sold exclusively online through Snap's website at launch. This allowed the company to better track demand and avoid overproduction.[4]

Hardware Specifications

Design Improvements

The Spectacles 2 featured a significantly more understated design compared to the bright, playful colors of the first generation:

  • Frame: Thinner, lighter plastic frame with more sophisticated styling[1]
  • Colors: Three frame options with two lens variations each:
    • Onyx: Black frame with Midnight or Eclipse lenses
    • Ruby: Red frame with Daybreak or Sunset lenses
    • Sapphire: Blue frame with Midnight or Twilight lenses[2]
  • Indicator Light: Removed the permanent yellow ring around the camera; only white LEDs display while recording[1]
  • Prescription Lenses: Partnership with Lensabl for prescription lens options[1]

Camera and Media Capture

  • Photo Capability: New ability to capture still photos (hold button to snap)[4]
  • Video Resolution: 1216 x 1216 pixels at 60fps[5]
  • Photo Resolution: 1642 x 1642 pixels[4]
  • Field of View: Reduced from 115° to 105° to minimize fish-eye warping[1]
  • Storage: 4GB internal storage (up to 150 videos or 3,000 photos)[4]

Connectivity and Performance

  • Transfer Speed: 4x faster than V1 (average 10-second video transfers in 3 seconds vs 9 seconds)[4]
  • Syncing: Improved process requiring only Bluetooth and a 7-second button press (no QR code scan)[1]
  • HD Transfer: All exports now happen in HD over internal Wi-Fi[1]
  • Auto-sync: Automatic transfer to Snapchat when connected to home Wi-Fi[4]

Durability

  • Water Resistance: Can withstand pool jumps and rain (not recommended for deep diving)[1]
  • Build Quality: More durable construction than V1[4]

Software Updates

In June 2018, Snap released an update allowing users to export videos from the glasses in square or widescreen format, addressing user feedback about the circular video format.[6]

A later Snapchat update allowed Snaps to be exported without the 'fisheye' look, which was one of the biggest complaints from users.[2]

Pricing and Availability

  • Launch Price: $149.99 (USD) - $20 more than the original[5]
  • What's Included: Spectacles, charging case, charging cable[5]
  • Distribution: Initially sold only on Spectacles.com; no Amazon availability at launch[5]
  • Markets: Initially U.S., Canada, U.K., and France, expanding to 13 more European countries on May 3, 2018[1]

Reception

The Spectacles 2 received mixed reviews:

Improvements Praised

  • More sophisticated, wearable design
  • Addition of photo capability
  • Significantly faster syncing
  • Water resistance
  • Better build quality

Continuing Limitations

  • Still limited to Snapchat ecosystem
  • Filters and effects can only be added post-capture
  • Continuous upload still not seamless
  • Higher price point
  • Limited battery life remained an issue[4]

Despite improvements, the glasses still struggled to find a mass market. VP of hardware Mark Randall acknowledged that while the company felt "pretty good about shipping 220,000 pairs" of V1, V2 sales were not expected to be dramatically different.[1]

Legacy

The Spectacles 2 represented an important iterative step in Snap's hardware journey. By addressing the most glaring issues from V1 while maintaining a reasonable price point, Snap demonstrated commitment to the long-term vision of wearable AR technology despite initial setbacks.[3]

The lessons learned from V2's more refined approach to both design and distribution would inform the company's bold leap to dual-camera 3D capture in Spectacles 3 the following year.

Images

See Also

References

  1. ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 https://techcrunch.com/2018/04/26/snapchat-spectacles-2/
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 https://www.techradar.com/reviews/snapchat-spectacles-2
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 https://blog.bolt.io/the-evolution-of-snap-spectacles-pt-i-craft-reveals-conviction/
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 https://www.wareable.com/wearable-tech/snapchat-snap-spectacles-2-release-date-specs-price-2018
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 https://www.newsweek.com/snapchat-spectacles-v2-how-buy-where-get-price-903068
  6. ↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spectacles_(product)
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