In contrast to many of its competitors in the social media space, Snap has not heavily invested in artificial intelligence. While the company has introduced various generative AI features to Snapchat, it has not prioritized the technology significantly.
Recently, Snap unveiled a new AI assistant called Specs Intelligence, aligned with the launch of its revamped augmented reality glasses. This “anticipatory AI service” will play a key role in the company’s hardware and will also be accessible via dedicated desktop and mobile applications for users without the glasses.
Though Snap doesn’t label Specs Intelligence as a typical assistant, it shares similarities with recent announcements from Meta regarding its own AI initiatives. “Specs Intelligence develops an understanding of your objectives, priorities, relationships, and daily routines based on the applications and tools you choose to link,” the company outlines in a recent blog entry.
Distinct from Snapchat, Specs Intelligence appears to be aimed more at enhancing productivity than the previous offerings from Snap. It connects with users’ external accounts such as Google to provide relevant reminders and information tailored to individual needs. For instance, it might offer “questions to ask and things to remember” before an upcoming meeting, or highlight travel itineraries before a trip. The assistant organizes information into specific categories based on context, helping differentiate between family-related tasks and work obligations.
For users who own the AR glasses, Specs Intelligence can deliver relevant information directly in their line of sight. AR Specs users can invoke the assistant by saying “Hey Specs.” Although this functionality was not demonstrated during a recent preview, users were able to open a web browser using voice commands, indicating some parallels with Meta’s AI integrations with its glasses.
Additionally, Snap seems to be addressing privacy concerns associated with Meta’s practices. The company has stated that it will not utilize Specs Intelligence to train AI models or serve advertisements, and that “Snap personnel will not view or access any personal content used with the service.”
Snap is rolling out a limited version of Specs Intelligence in the U.S. for testing through the Specs app on iOS. This preview allows users to link their Google accounts for “insights regarding their time and attention,” but does not include proactive recommendations. An exclusive “full early-access” version will initially be available by invitation only and will be compatible with the Specs Mac application. Interested users can now sign up for a waitlist.
