Quickly following a leaked video for a wearable called Spectacles, Snapchat has confirmed the device and also a rebrand of its company to simply Snap. The app will retain the name Snapchat.
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After a year of speculation, Snapchat has finally revealed its first hardware product. “Now that we are developing other products, like Spectacles, we need a name that goes beyond just one product”.
Although Spiegel says the reason he created the Spectacles was just “for fun,” he also admits that there could be “far-reaching implications if Snapchat can seize the means of image production”.
The long-rumored glasses will be released this fall for $129.99, but only a limited number of pairs will be available.
In a report by Wall Street Journal, Snapchat has been renamed to Snap Inc.to align with its existing and future projects. Recording is as simple as tapping a button near the hinge and, since Spectacles will be wirelessly linked to your smartphone, the Snaps are then automatically added to your Memories.
Taking video without having to hold a camera or phone is what allows Spectacles to offer first-person-like video. “Spectacles” camera has a 115 degree angle lens that is closer to your eyes’ natural field of view.
Spectacles will come in one size and three colours – black, teal or coral. First, the company is changing its corporate name to Snap, Inc.
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The glasses work only with Snapchat, and are expected to land in the market soon. The specs charge in their charging case, and can be used for a whole day on a single charge. When the built-in camera is filming, an internal light will let you know that you’re recording, and an external light will alert others to the fact that they’re being filmed. Spiegel hints to The WSJ that there could be “far-reaching implications” if Snap controlled the hardware its users take pictures and video with.
