Snap has unveiled its fifth-generation Spectacles, smart glasses designed for augmented reality (AR) applications, which are currently available for developers to rent at $99 per month.

These Spectacles are equipped with advanced hardware, including four cameras, dual Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, stereo speakers, and six microphones, all aimed at enhancing the AR experience.

The glasses provide detailed visuals and accurate environmental mapping, allowing for interactive experiences that seamlessly integrate with the physical surroundings.

With a resolution of 37 pixels per degree, the AR experiences delivered by the Spectacles are designed for high fidelity, although the horizontal field of view could be improved.

Despite their advanced features, the Spectacles weigh 226 grams and offer a battery life of approximately 45 minutes, which Snap aims to enhance before the commercial release.

Snap is focused on refining the design of the Spectacles, aiming to reduce their bulkiness and enhance the app ecosystem ahead of a public launch.

The Spectacles are intended to facilitate collaboration in mixed reality, allowing multiple users to interact with shared AR objects in the same physical space.

These collaborative experiences highlight both practical applications and enjoyable interactions that the AR Spectacles can provide.

Powered by Snap OS, the Spectacles feature an intuitive user interface that can be controlled through simple hand gestures.

To thrive in the competitive AR market, Snap must prioritize reducing the bulk of their glasses while gathering feedback from developers to refine the technology.

Snap's approach to AR leverages its Snapchat app and generative AI features, positioning it uniquely in the market as it develops standalone AR glasses.

While the My AI app showcased impressive capabilities, it also revealed limitations such as short battery life, which Snap is working to improve.