Snap announced a partnership between its AR-glasses subsidiary, Specs, and Qualcomm, as it prepares for a wearable release later this year. The Snapchat creator has long teased the glasses, called Spectacles or Specs, and earlier this year, it spun off a new company to focus on this business. In February, the company parted ways with Scott Myers, its SVP of Specs, following a reported conflict with Snap CEO Evan Spiegel.
The partnership with Qualcomm indicates progress for the project. Specs will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR platforms, designed for augmented and virtual reality devices, according to a press release.
The companies will develop “on-device AI, cutting-edge graphics, and advanced multiuser digital experiences” as part of a strategic, multi-year agreement.
“Our work with Qualcomm provides a strong foundation for the future of Specs, delivering technology and performance that expands possibilities,” Spiegel stated.
The Specs story has been extensive. Snap began developing it over a decade ago. The last consumer version was in 2019. Since 2024, the glasses have been a developer-only product, allowing Snap to create new programs aimed at attracting users upon launch.