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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|image=[[File:snap spectacles21.jpg|350px]]
|image =
|VR/AR=[[Augmented Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Wearable]]
|Type=[[AR Glasses]]
|Type = [[Smart glasses]]
|Subtype=[[Phone-Powered AR]]
|Subtype = Camera glasses (Snapchat)
|Platform=[[Snapchat]]
|Platform = iOS, Android
|Creator=
|Creator = [[Snap Inc.]]
|Developer=[[Snap Inc.]]
|Announced = April 2018
|Manufacturer=[[Snap Inc.]]
|Release = 2018
|Announcement Date=April 26, 2018
|Price = $149-$199
|Release Date=April 26, 2018
|Website = https://www.spectacles.com
|Price=$149.99
|OS = Proprietary
|Website=https://www.spectacles.com/
|CPU = Embedded
|Versions=Onyx, Ruby, Sapphire
|GPU =
|Requires=iPhone 7 or above running iOS 11+, Select Android devices running Android 6+
|Storage = 150 videos / 3000 photos
|Predecessor=[[Snap Spectacles]]
|RAM =
|Successor=[[Snap Spectacles 3]]
|Display = None (camera only)
|Operating System=
|Resolution =
|Chipset=
|Refresh =
|CPU=
|Brightness =
|GPU=
|FOV =
|HPU=
|PPD =
|Storage=4GB flash
|Lenses = Sunglass lenses (polarized/mirrored options)
|Memory=
|IPD =
|SD Card Slot=No
|Eye Tracking =
|Display=No display (camera only)
|Hand Tracking =
|Subpixel Layout=
|Tracking =
|Peak Brightness=
|Spatial Mapping =
|Resolution=1216 x 1216 (video), 1642 x 1642 (photos)
|Speakers = None
|Refresh Rate=60 fps
|Microphone = Yes
|Pixel Density=
|Audio Jack =
|Persistence=
|Connectivity = Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct
|Precision=
|Ports = Charging case
|Field of View=105° (camera)
|Battery = 70+ videos per charge
|Horizontal FoV=
|Weight = Lightweight
|Vertical FoV=
|Materials = Water resistant
|Visible FoV=
|Colors = Onyx, Ruby, Sapphire (+ Nico/Veronica styles)
|Rendered FoV=
|Sensors = 115° HD camera
|Binocular Overlap=
|Input = Physical button
|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=
}}
}}


__TOC__
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>
==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 [[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>
== History and Development ==


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>
=== Original Spectacles (2016) ===
First-generation camera glasses caused social media phenomenon.


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


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>
=== Nico & Veronica (2018) ===
Designer style variants released later in 2018.


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>
== Design and Hardware ==


==Hardware Specifications==
=== Camera ===
* '''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


===Design Improvements===
=== Improved Design ===
The Spectacles 2 featured a significantly more understated design compared to the bright, playful colors of the first generation:
* Lighter frames than Gen 1
* '''Frame''': Thinner, lighter plastic frame with more sophisticated styling<ref name="techcrunch"></ref>
* Removed yellow camera ring
* '''Colors''': Three frame options with two lens variations each:
* More discreet appearance
** '''Onyx''': Black frame with Midnight or Eclipse lenses
* Additional style options
** '''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>


===Camera and Media Capture===
=== Water Resistance ===
* '''Photo Capability''': New ability to capture still photos (hold button to snap)<ref name="wareable"></ref>
* Pool and beach rated
* '''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>
* Shallow underwater photo/video capable
* '''Photo Resolution''': 1642 x 1642 pixels<ref name="wareable"></ref>
* Improved durability
* '''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>


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


===Durability===
== Recording ==
* '''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>


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


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>
=== Photo Mode ===
Hold button to capture photo.


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>
=== Circular Format ===
* Unique circular video format
* Optimized for mobile viewing
* Shareable in multiple aspect ratios


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


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


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


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


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


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


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>
=== Export Formats ===
* Circular (native)
* Square
* Widescreen


==Legacy==
== Compatibility ==


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>
=== iOS ===
iPhone 5 and later, iOS 8+.


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 ===
Android 4.3+, requires BLE and Wi-Fi Direct.


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


[[File:snap spectacles22.jpg|400px]]
=== Standard Colors ===
==See Also==
* Onyx (black)
* 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]]
* [[Augmented Reality]]
* [[Camera glasses]]
* [[Smart Glasses]]
* [[Social media wearables]]


==References==
== References ==
<references>
{{Reflist}}
<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:Augmented Reality Devices]]
[[Category:Smart glasses]]
[[Category:Smart Glasses]]
[[Category:Camera glasses]]
[[Category:Snap Inc.]]
[[Category:Snap Inc.]]
[[Category:2018 in Technology]]
[[Category:Snapchat]]
[[Category:Social media devices]]
[[Category:2010s wearables]]

Revision as of 22:15, 7 January 2026

Snap Spectacles 2
Basic Info
VR/AR Wearable
Type Smart glasses
Subtype Camera glasses (Snapchat)
Platform iOS, Android
Creator Snap Inc.
Price $149-$199
Website https://www.spectacles.com
System
CPU Embedded
Storage
Storage 150 videos / 3000 photos
Display
Display None (camera only)
Image
Optics
Tracking
Audio
Microphone Yes
Connectivity
Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct
Ports Charging case
Device
Weight Lightweight
Sensors 115° HD camera
Input Physical button


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.[1]

History and Development

Original Spectacles (2016)

First-generation camera glasses caused social media phenomenon.

Spectacles 2 (April 2018)

Improved design with water resistance and lighter frames.

Nico & Veronica (2018)

Designer style variants released later in 2018.

Design and Hardware

Camera

  • 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

  • Lighter frames than Gen 1
  • Removed yellow camera ring
  • More discreet appearance
  • Additional style options

Water Resistance

  • Pool and beach rated
  • Shallow underwater photo/video capable
  • Improved durability

Lens Options

  • Standard lenses
  • Polarized options
  • Mirrored variants

Recording

Video Capture

  • Single press: 10-second video
  • Press again: Extend to 30 seconds
  • LED ring indicates recording

Photo Mode

Hold button to capture photo.

Circular Format

  • Unique circular video format
  • Optimized for mobile viewing
  • Shareable in multiple aspect ratios

Storage and Battery

Internal Storage

  • Up to 150 videos
  • Up to 3,000 photos
  • Before requiring transfer

Battery Life

  • Up to 70 videos per charge
  • Charging case provides 4x recharges

Syncing and Sharing

Wireless Transfer

  • Bluetooth sync with phone
  • Automatic when phone nearby
  • Wi-Fi Direct for faster transfers

Snapchat Integration

  • Direct to Memories
  • Share to Stories
  • Multiple format options (circular/square/wide)

Export Formats

  • Circular (native)
  • Square
  • Widescreen

Compatibility

iOS

iPhone 5 and later, iOS 8+.

Android

Android 4.3+, requires BLE and Wi-Fi Direct.

Models and Colors

Standard Colors

  • Onyx (black)
  • Ruby (red)
  • Sapphire (blue)

Designer Variants

  • Nico style
  • Veronica style
  • Alternative fashion designs

Comparison: Gen 1 vs Gen 2

Feature Spectacles 1 Spectacles 2
Water Resistant No Yes
Yellow Ring Yes Removed
Weight Heavier Lighter
Photos No Yes
Styles 3 5+

Specifications

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

References

  1. ↑ "Spectacles". Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spectacles_(product).
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