How Spectacles By Snap Inc. Are Changing Media Recording And Consumption

When Google’s, ‘Glass’ failed miserably back in 2015, most people thought this niche was somehow too far-fetched to pursue or ahead of its time. However, Google Glass took photos and videos, but also allowed you to surf the web at an all-time cost of $1,500. That was nothing like the new Snap Inc. Spectacles that hit the market only a few months ago. Although it was the first time LA’s app company (famously known for Snapchat) went into hardware products, the outcome has been loved by at least everyone who has laid their hand on Spectacles. That is not to say that everything was perfect; the sunglasses can
sure do with some enhancements and additional features. However, most people were satisfied with how they performed. In fact, Spectacles (as they are popularly known) are a great step that will bring about unparalleled media evolution and revolutionize both media consumption and social media in general. Here is a brief look at how the spectacles work, what it means for video content and consumption, as well as the impacts on Snap Inc. There are some considerable differences between Google Glass and Snapchats Spectacles.

What are Spectacles and how do they work?
As aforementioned, Spectacles refers to a special group of sunglasses produced by Snap Inc. to enable the capture of short videos in 10-second intervals. The spectacles, which are basically sunglasses, feature one button at the top left which initializes the capture of a 10-second video. You can extend the length by another 10 seconds and record up to 30 seconds on video in 10-second splits. The clips are however shown as a running video once synced with the Snapchat app. After syncing, the videos are listed in the Memories Section of Snapchat in a new tab labeled “Specs.” Syncing can be done via Bluetooth or using WIFI and works with both android and iOS devices, which helps with its adoption rate. The hardware comes nicely wrapped in its package which contains a charging case, USB cable and a cleaning cloth shaped like the Snapchat ghost. These spectacles sync with the app once it is open and you press the single button in the top left while looking at the app. Bluetooth connection is more efficient than WIFI, but they both give you the same result. Once the videos are captured, they can be shared with Snapchat friends and distributed to other social media.

The design and video content
Spectacles are a clear depiction of the media evolution that has been taking place and possibility of overreach. The sunglasses are just like your ordinary glasses, albeit with an additional button used to capture the videos. The design is slim and quite lightweight, which is amazing and unexpected. Two sets of whimsical LED lights show up when recording to tell those around that you have started recording. Since a camera is embedded in the glasses those not familiar with them may not know you are recording them. It is quite fun to record using Spectacles as the lights are unlike your conventional intimidating red lights. A smooth light blinks on the inside while a tiny LED swirls at the front section. Perhaps the most important thing to note is the video content and its consumption. Spectacles allow you to record up to 30 seconds of video and quickly share via Snapchat including to other social media. The quality of videos cannot be compared to those you get from an iPhone or high-end android smartphones, but they are still clear enough that the video is shareable. Don’t expect very high HD quality, though. Spectacle is not about recording lengthy video shots used for long form content. Rather, it is designed for moment sharing and quick video consumption, think about stuff in the moment that you wish a friend could see. It is purely designed for social purposes to notify your friends and followers what is taking place in real time and share fun moments. It is also the first hardware from Snap Inc. who recently changed their name from Snapchat to Snap Inc. since they now have more than one product. In terms of business, this pair of sunglasses will really boost Snap Inc. to a new level in the market, especially with regards to media consumption as it will help get consumers to identify more deeply with the Snapchat platform. The glasses come at around $129.95 and have a recharging kit that will power the Spectacles up to 4 times.

Summary
Spectacle is only the first of many wearable tech pieces to come from technology companies and with improving technology, the quality, length and supported capture size will definitely increase. The syncing time and efficiency are also expected to improve in future models. The glasses neatly snap into the casing and are clear. You have three different colors (black, coral and teal) to choose. Although you only get 30 seconds of recording, the glasses get more intuitive and interesting once you start capturing and sharing the media.