Latest news with #NianticSpatial
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026
US-based technology company Snap has unveiled plans to launch a new augmented reality (AR) product, known as Specs, in 2026. Specs is a lightweight wearable computer integrated into glasses with see-through lenses. The company has invested more than $3bn over the past 11 years to develop this lightweight wearable technology, which integrates digital experiences into a pair of glasses with transparent lenses. Specs are designed to enhance the physical environment through advanced machine learning (ML) and AI, allowing users to engage in shared experiences, gaming, and productivity tasks. Snap's vision for Specs is to overcome the limitations of smartphones, which often require users to focus on small screens rather than their surroundings. The company believes that as AI evolves, existing devices and interfaces must also adapt to fully harness AI's capabilities. Specs are intended to facilitate immersive experiences that allow users to interact with their environment in real-time. Snap is also collaborating with Niantic Spatial to integrate their Visual Positioning System into Specs, and plans to introduce WebXR support for browser-based experiences in the near future. Developers are currently 'building new experiences' for Spectacles, the fifth generation of Snap's glasses that were released in 2024 as a precursor to Specs. Snap's announcement showcased the possibilities for developers utilising the new Specs. Among the early experiences include Gowaaa's Super Travel, a tool designed to help travellers with translation and currency conversion, and Paradiddle's Drum Kit, which supports users in mastering drumming techniques. Other applications include Pool Assist from Studio ANRK, Cookmate from Headraft, and Wisp World from Liquid City, each designed to enhance user experiences in various ways. In addition to Specs, Snap has announced significant updates to Snap OS, incorporating feedback from its developer community. Key updates include deep integrations with OpenAI and Google Cloud's Gemini, enabling the developers create of AI-powered Lenses. The new Depth Module API allows for accurate anchoring of augmented reality information in three dimensions, while the Automated Speech Recognition API supports real-time transcription in over 40 languages. New tools for developers will facilitate the creation of location-based experiences, including a Fleet Management app for monitoring Specs and Guided Navigation for AR tours. These enhancements aim to support developers such as Enklu, which operates immersive holographic theatres across the US. In 2024, Snap announced plans to cut its workforce by about 10%, reflecting ongoing job reductions in the tech sector amid economic uncertainties since 2023. "Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026
US-based technology company Snap has unveiled plans to launch a new augmented reality (AR) product, known as Specs, in 2026. Specs is a lightweight wearable computer integrated into glasses with see-through lenses. The company has invested more than $3bn over the past 11 years to develop this lightweight wearable technology, which integrates digital experiences into a pair of glasses with transparent lenses. Specs are designed to enhance the physical environment through advanced machine learning (ML) and AI, allowing users to engage in shared experiences, gaming, and productivity tasks. Snap's vision for Specs is to overcome the limitations of smartphones, which often require users to focus on small screens rather than their surroundings. The company believes that as AI evolves, existing devices and interfaces must also adapt to fully harness AI's capabilities. Specs are intended to facilitate immersive experiences that allow users to interact with their environment in real-time. Snap is also collaborating with Niantic Spatial to integrate their Visual Positioning System into Specs, and plans to introduce WebXR support for browser-based experiences in the near future. Developers are currently 'building new experiences' for Spectacles, the fifth generation of Snap's glasses that were released in 2024 as a precursor to Specs. Snap's announcement showcased the possibilities for developers utilising the new Specs. Among the early experiences include Gowaaa's Super Travel, a tool designed to help travellers with translation and currency conversion, and Paradiddle's Drum Kit, which supports users in mastering drumming techniques. Other applications include Pool Assist from Studio ANRK, Cookmate from Headraft, and Wisp World from Liquid City, each designed to enhance user experiences in various ways. In addition to Specs, Snap has announced significant updates to Snap OS, incorporating feedback from its developer community. Key updates include deep integrations with OpenAI and Google Cloud's Gemini, enabling the developers create of AI-powered Lenses. The new Depth Module API allows for accurate anchoring of augmented reality information in three dimensions, while the Automated Speech Recognition API supports real-time transcription in over 40 languages. New tools for developers will facilitate the creation of location-based experiences, including a Fleet Management app for monitoring Specs and Guided Navigation for AR tours. These enhancements aim to support developers such as Enklu, which operates immersive holographic theatres across the US. In 2024, Snap announced plans to cut its workforce by about 10%, reflecting ongoing job reductions in the tech sector amid economic uncertainties since 2023. "Snap to introduce new immersive and lightweight glasses in 2026" was originally created and published by Verdict, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
GSM Arena
11-06-2025
- Business
- GSM Arena
Snap will launch its AR glasses called Specs next year, and these will be commercially available
Snap Inc. unveiled its fifth-generation AR glasses, called Spectacles 5, last September, but they were only available to developers who signed up for the $99/month developer program. The good news is that this won't be the case with Snap's next AR glasses, which are set to launch in 2026. This revelation came from Snap during the ongoing Augmented World Expo (AWE) 2025 in Long Beach, California, in the US, where the company also announced that its next AR glasses, which will be available to the public, will be called "Specs." 'We believe the time is right for a revolution in computing that naturally integrates our digital experiences with the physical world, and we can't wait to publicly launch our new Specs next year,' said Evan Spiegel, co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc. Spectacles 5 Spiegel also claimed that Specs, which will be Snap's first commercially available AR glasses, "are the most advanced personal computer in the world." While Snap didn't delve into the details of the Specs, it said these AR glasses feature "see-through Lenses that enhance the physical world with digital experience." Furthermore, the company revealed that it has spent more than $3 billion on AR glasses over the past 11 years. In addition to revealing the launch timeframe of Specs, Snap announced updates to Snap OS, including deep integrations with OpenAI and Gemini on Google Cloud. Moreover, the company launched new tools for developers building location-based experiences. It includes the Fleet Management app, Guided Mode, and Guided Navigation. That's not it. Snap also announced that WebXR support in the browser is coming soon, and it is partnering with Niantic Spatial to bring its Visual Positioning System to Lens Studio and Specs to build an AI-powered map of the world.
Axios
10-06-2025
- Business
- Axios
Snap to launch AI-powered AR glasses in 2026
Snap on Tuesday announced that it plans to launch a new version of its augmented reality glasses, called Specs, in 2026. The new wearable computer lenses bring the power of AI assistant tools to the user's 3D AR experience. Why it matters: Snapchat still makes most of its money from advertising on its mobile app, but CEO Evan Spiegel believes the future of connection, and its business, will live beyond the smartphone and in the real world. "The tiny smartphone limited our imagination. It forced us to look down at a screen instead of up at the world. It required our fingers to hold, swipe and tap when we really wanted to live hands-free," he said Tuesday at the Augmented World Expo 2025 in Long Beach, California. "It kept content confined to a small 2D rectangle, when we really wanted to experience life in all of its three-dimensional splendor." Catch up quick: The new AR glasses are leaps and bounds more sophisticated than Snapchat's first iteration of consumer wearables, called Spectacles. Spectacles, which were first launched in 2016, allowed users to take pictures and video with their glasses and add AR overlays onto that content. But those features weren't powered by AI tools, which can now deliver more complex and engaging experiences. Snap released its fifth generation of Spectacles for developers in 2024. It's since leveraged the creativity and brain power of thousands of developers to help create experiences that will eventually power the version of Specs launching next year. How it works: Specs will leverage AI to help enhance the consumer experience far beyond creating and capturing content. The new glasses allow users to share games and experiences with friends, stream content and set up virtual work stations. They will also leverage AI recommendations and tools to help users with tasks such as figuring out how to change a tire or position a pool cue. Zoom out: Snap has long prioritized its relationship with the developer community as a way of expanding its creative tools, especially around AR. Using Snap's existing AR tools, over 400,000 developers have built more than 4 million Snapchat Lenses, or AR overlays, that can be positioned on top of photos or videos taken by users. Snapchat users currently use AR Lenses in the Snapchat camera 8 billion times per day, according to the company. With the launch of Specs, Snap said it will also roll out new tools specifically for developers building location-based experiences. The big picture: Snap's smartphone experience has paved the way for its 3D spatial computing efforts. Its Snap Map, which now has more than 400 million monthly active users, will eventually become a critical part of its wearables strategy. In its announcement Tuesday, Snap said it's partnering with Niantic Spatial to bring their visual positioning system to its developer Lens Studio and Specs to build a shared, AI-powered map of the world. The bottom line: Spiegel believes the hardware space has been slow to elevate and enhance the advancements of sophisticated AI software, and he wants Snap to be the company that bridges that gap.
Business Wire
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
8th Wall and HTC VIVERSE Announce 'Forge the Future' Global Game Jam
BUSINESS WIRE)--Niantic Spatial's 8th Wall and HTC's VIVERSE today announced the launch of the Forge the Future: 8th Wall x VIVERSE Game Jam, an all-new global competition challenging developers, creators, and students to build the next generation of cross-platform games using Niantic Studio on 8th Wall. A New Era for Game Creators Running from May 12, 2025, through June 30, 2025, 'Forge the Future' marks the first time Niantic has teamed up with a global content distribution partner to offer creators not only funding but also direct entry into the VIVERSE Creator Program*. Top teams will gain unprecedented visibility and support to bring their projects to a worldwide audience. 'We're thrilled to empower the next generation of creators with the tools, funding, and platform to shape the future of gaming,' said Joel Udwin, Director of Product at Niantic Spatial. 'Partnering with VIVERSE opens the door for developers to reach millions and push the boundaries of what's possible in real-world, cross-platform games.' VIVERSE's Creator Program supports 3D content creators globally, partnering with creators across various industries, including interactive narratives, games, education, e-commerce, and more. The top three winners of the 'Forge the Future' competition will gain immediate access to the program to bring their 8th Wall game to the platform. 'Niantic is a leader in developing 3D immersive worlds and game tools that are changing how the world views VR/AR,' said Andranik Aslanyan, Head of Growth, HTC VIVERSE. 'Collaborating with 8th Wall is an exciting step forward to supporting creators with their favorite tools and platform, all to grow the 3D creator community.' Key highlights of the Forge the Future Game Jam include: Powerful Tools, No Cost to Join: Build using Niantic Studio on 8th Wall for free during the Game Jam. Global Opportunity: Open to developers, studios, students, artists, and dreamers around the world. Major Prizes: $10,000 for 1st place, $6,000 for 2nd place, $4,000 for 3rd place through the VIVERSE Creator Program, plus multiple $2,000 and $1,000 category prizes. Direct Access: Winners receive invitations to the prestigious VIVERSE Creator Program. Workshops & Mentoring: Participants will have access to ideation support, technical 1:1s, and exclusive industry events throughout the Game Jam. How to Participate Registration is open now at and the first live Info Session kicks off on May 12 at 11am PT. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Residents of certain countries are excluded from participation; see official rules for details. *Terms and conditions apply About 8th Wall 8th Wall is Niantic Spatial's award-winning 3D & XR development platform that makes it possible to build interactive, immersive content that can be experienced on any device—no app required. 8th Wall supports billions of devices globally and has been used by developers, agencies and creative studios to create 3D/AR activations for brands across industry verticals including retail, food and beverage, travel and tourism, automotive, fashion, sports and entertainment. 8th Wall has powered WebAR experiences for top brands such as Nike, Porsche, Sony Pictures, Burger King, General Mills, British Gas, Heineken, McDonald's, Swiss Airlines, Toyota, Red Bull, Adidas, COACH and more. Learn more about 8th Wall at About VIVERSE VIVERSE is an open and user-centric 3D place that connects people from all walks of life to a boundless virtual world. We strive to empower as many people as possible to explore, work, and play in a safe environment. Every experience is unique, and your transactions and data are secure. VIVERSE provides an array of tools and services for individuals, creators, corporations, and developers to build and explore in this immersive space. Visit the VIVERSE website here:
