Snap, the social media company turned AR glasses-maker, has officially announced Snap OS 2.0, its next generation of smart glasses software.
After testing Snap OS 2.0 at Snap’s London offices last week, my expectations for the release of their first consumer-ready smartglasses in eight years in 2026 are high.
The original Snap Spectacles in 2016 marked a significant shift for the company, transitioning from a software-first approach to hardware. The focus shifted from capturing moments with your hands to capturing them with your face, allowing users to augment the world and share it back on their phones.
Following further iterations, Snap reimagined Spectacles for developers, transforming them into self-contained computers on the face with advanced tracking capabilities for 3D objects.
Last year’s updated Spectacles introduced Snap OS, refining fundamental experiences on the platform with the help of developer partners.
My experience with Snap OS 2.0 provided insight into the refined user experience and a glimpse of what to expect from the 2026 Spectacles.
Here are three standout features I enjoyed using, along with one area that Snap still needs to address before the final release.
Connected sessions are amazing
One of the most impressive features I experienced with Snap OS 2.0 was Connected Sessions. Collaborating with Snap’s Augmented Reality Engineer, Andreas Müller, I joined a session where we could paint 3D shapes together in real-time with low latency.
This feature has the potential to revolutionize local collaboration and multiplayer gaming once integrated into experiences by developers.
Powerful Spotlight, Browser, and Gallery features
Spotlight, Browser, and Gallery are key additions in Snap OS 2.0. Spotlight allows for interactive vertical content consumption, Browser supports WebXR for AR experiences, and Gallery provides a chronological overview of captured content.
The resolution and brightness of Spectacles ensure a seamless browsing experience and content playback.
Impressive AI sound and vision
Snap OS integrates AI for immersive experiences, such as Spatial Tips for instructional overlays and Super Travel for real-time translations.
These AI features enhance the user’s interaction with the environment and objects around them.
Lower profile Spectacles are needed
While the technology within Spectacles is impressive, the form factor needs improvement for public wearability. Snap will need to focus on making the hardware more compact and aesthetically pleasing for everyday use.
Overall, Snap OS 2.0 showcases exciting advancements in smart glasses technology, with promising features for future releases.
