According to a recent report, SnapChat is working on some new smart glasses similar to Google Glass. The company is apparently in the process of recruiting hardware experts for the project, signaling a significant investment in wearable technology.
The news comes in a report from Cnet, which has learned that Snapchat has hired around a dozen hardware engineers so far. These engineers have impressive backgrounds, having worked on projects like Nokia smartphones and more. This recruitment drive indicates that Snapchat is serious about expanding its product offerings beyond its popular social media app.
Vergence Labs Acquisition
Back in 2014, Snapchat purchased Vergence Labs, a startup that was working on a Google Glass-style device. This acquisition was a strategic move to bolster Snapchat’s capabilities in the wearable tech space. Five of Vergence Labs’ employees are apparently still working at Snapchat, contributing their expertise to this new project. This continuity suggests that Snapchat has been planning this move for quite some time and is now ready to take the next steps.
Vergence Labs was known for its innovative approach to smart glasses, which combined fashion with functionality. Their product, Epiphany Eyewear, featured a built-in camera capable of recording videos and taking photos. This aligns well with Snapchat’s core functionality of sharing moments through images and videos, making the acquisition a logical fit.
Potential Features and Market Impact
While it is not clear when the company will launch this new device, it is said to be in the early stages at the moment. Therefore, we may have to wait a while to find out more details about it. However, based on the expertise of the team and Snapchat’s focus on visual communication, we can speculate on some potential features.
The smart glasses could include advanced camera capabilities, augmented reality (AR) features, and seamless integration with the Snapchat app. Imagine being able to capture Snaps directly from your glasses or overlaying AR filters in real-time as you view the world. These features could revolutionize the way users interact with Snapchat and make the platform even more engaging.
Moreover, Snapchat’s entry into the smart glasses market could have a significant impact on the industry. Google Glass, despite its initial hype, faced several challenges, including privacy concerns and a high price point. Snapchat could learn from these challenges and offer a more user-friendly and affordable product. This could potentially make smart glasses more mainstream and acceptable to the general public.
Additionally, Snapchat’s large and active user base provides a ready market for the new device. If the company can successfully integrate the glasses with its app, it could drive significant adoption and set a new trend in wearable technology.
In conclusion, Snapchat’s foray into the smart glasses market is an exciting development. The company’s recruitment of hardware experts and the acquisition of Vergence Labs indicate a serious commitment to this project. While we may have to wait for more details, the potential features and market impact of Snapchat’s smart glasses are promising. This move could not only enhance the Snapchat experience but also shape the future of wearable technology.
Source Cnet
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