Snapchat has announced an updated operating system to power its
upcoming augmented reality (AR) product, “Spectacles,” a linchpin in the social media company’s plan to overcome market challenges and compete with tech giants like Meta
and Apple.
According to Snapchat, its “Snap OS 2.0” will feature a new interface designed to bring utilities — including viewing content and browsing — to the company’s 2026
Specs wearables.
Building from the fifth-generation Specs, which launched in 2024, Snap says its 2026 model has an overhauled browser that is faster, more powerful and easier to use, along
with a new gallery experience that enables users to scan through Snap gallery content within the glasses display, and a Spotlight Lens addition via an integrated short-form video feed.
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The
company says its updated operating system will include WebXR support for the Specs’ new browser, making immersive AR experiences accessible to users directly from WebXR-enabled websites.
In addition, Snap plans on launching a Specs-specific version of “Synth Riders,” a popular AR freestyle dancing rhythm game currently available on various VR surfaces.
With its
expected 2026 launch, Snap is trying to beat Meta and Apple to market with its new generation Specs. Earlier this week, Snap CEO Evan Spiegel released a letter describing Specs as a key focus in the
14-year-old company’s attempt to seize its current “crucible moment.”
“Specs are how we move beyond the limits of smartphones, beyond red-ocean competition, and into a
once-in-a-generation transformation towards human-centered computing,” Spiegel said.
Without a successful launch of Specs, Snapchat’s revenue boosting options may become more limited,
reliant on growing its active user base more rapidly in the U.S. and Europe. With Meta and Apple planning the launch of their new respective AR wearable products slated for 2027, Snap is trying to
appeal to consumers and advertisers before these larger competitors.