Snap Inc. has announced the release of Snap OS 2.0, an updated version of its operating system for Spectacles, the company’s augmented reality (AR) glasses. The new software aims to improve user experience and expand functionality ahead of the planned public launch of Specs in 2026.
The update introduces a redesigned Browser for Spectacles, featuring a minimalist interface and improvements in speed and power efficiency. Users can now access widgets and bookmarks from a new home screen, control navigation through typing or voice commands, and resize browser windows as needed. WebXR support has also been added, allowing users to experience immersive AR content directly from compatible websites.
A dedicated Spotlight Lens is included in Snap OS 2.0, enabling users to view content overlaid onto their real-world environment without needing a phone. This feature supports vertical video and allows content to be anchored in place or follow the user’s movement.
The Gallery Lens offers an interactive way to view and organize photos and videos captured with Spectacles. Users can scroll through media in a carousel layout, zoom for detail, and share favorites via Snapchat Stories or direct messages.
Travel Mode is another addition designed to stabilize AR content while users are on the move—whether traveling by plane, train, or car—helping digital elements remain steady during transit.
Snap reports that hundreds of developers across 30 countries are creating Lenses for Spectacles. Notable examples include SightCraft by Enklu, NavigatAR by Utopia Labs, Pool Assist by Studio ANRK, as well as several Lenses developed internally at Snap such as Finger Paint, Chess, and Imagine Together.
“One year ago, we introduced our fifth-generation Spectacles and brand new operating system, Snap OS. Snap OS is the software that brings Spectacles to life, enabling a new kind of computer and real-time AI-powered experiences that invite people to interact naturally with the world using their hands and voice.”
“As we look forward to the public launch of Specs in 2026, we’re excited to introduce Snap OS 2.0, which both offers our community a new interface and makes possible Lenses that will bring utilities, like enjoying content, browsing, and staying in touch – to Spectacles.”
“We’ve overhauled the Spectacles Browser to make it faster, more powerful, and easier to use. With a new minimalist design that feels right at home in Snap OS, we’ve optimized page loading speed and power usage so you can navigate quickly and easily.”
“We’ve also introduced a new home screen with widgets and bookmarks, so your favorite sites are just a pinch away. The updated toolbar gives you more control letting you type or speak a website URL navigate history,and refresh the page with ease.Plus,you can resize windows toyour preferred aspect ratio just like you would on your laptop keeping youin chargeof the lookand feelof your workspace.”
“Browser now includes WebXR support openingthe doorfor immersive augmented reality experiences thatyoucan access directlyfrom anyWebXR-enabled website.”
“With thenew dedicated Spotlight Lens,we’ve createda phone-free larger-than-life experiencethat spatially overlaysyour favoritecontent onto thereal world.”
“Nowyoucando disheswhileyour favorite creator’s video plays seamlesslyin frontof youreyesor layout commentsin3D space.The portrait orientationof ourSpectacles’ fieldof viewis aperfect fitfor verticalvideo allowingyouto enjoycontentwithoutever havingto lookdownatyour phone.Easily anchorSpotlightinoneplaceor haveitfollowyouasyou movearound.”
“We’realso makingiteasierthanevertoreliveand shareyour memories.The newGalleryLensletsyouviewyourSpectacles capturesinaspacious interactive layout.You canscrollthroughacurvingcarouselofyourvideos zoominformoredetailandeasilyorganizeyourfavoritesbeforesendingthemtoafriendor postingtoyourStoryonSnapchat.”
“TomakesureyoucanuseSpectacleswhereverlifetakesyou,we’realso introducingTravelMode.ThisnewfeaturestabilizesARcontentandtrackingsystemswhileyou’reonthemove–whether you’reonaplane trainorsittinginthepassengerseatofacar–ensuringyourdigitalcontentstaysanchoredandstable.”
There are currently no external URLs provided for further reference regarding this announcement.
