Snap is set to enhance its fifth generation of Spectacles—augmented reality (AR) glasses aimed at developers—just six months after their release. On Monday, the company announced new features that allow developers to create location-based Lenses using GPS, GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System), compass headings, and specific locations. This update aims to improve the user experience by enabling developers to build features like AR walking courses, utilising geo-location data effectively.
One notable example of the new functionality is NavigatAR from Utopia Labs. This feature uses Snap Map Tiles to guide users with glowing arrows, assisting wearers in navigating to their destinations. Additionally, Snap has introduced hand-tracking capabilities, which can detect hand gestures, like grabbing, and recognise when users are holding a phone. A new option allows developers to integrate leaderboards for a competitive edge in their Lenses, along with the introduction of an AR keyboard.
Currently, the Spectacles are available exclusively through Snap’s developer program, which costs $99 a month. To make the technology more accessible, Snap has also implemented a 50% discount for educators and students, demonstrating a commitment to democratising AR experiences and positioning itself competitively against major industry players like Apple, Google, and Meta.
Complementing these updates, Snap announced the “Spectacles Community Challenges,” which will reward developers with $20,000 for the best Lenses created each month, starting from April 1. This initiative encourages creativity and innovation within the developer community while showcasing the potential of AR applications in everyday life.
Fanpage: TechArena.au
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