Snap Confirms Fall 2026 Specs Launch; ARtillery Forecasts Spatial Computing Growth

ARtillery Intelligence projects global spatial computing revenue will grow from $28.2 billion in 2025 to $59.7 billion in 2030, representing a 16.2 percent compound annual growth rate. The forecast identifies AI-powered smart glasses as a primary driver, with Meta’s earnings showing these devices offsetting declines in consumer VR. While VR currently leads in total revenue ($13.75 billion last year) due to established software ecosystems, non-display AI glasses lead in unit sales and are projected to challenge VR’s revenue position. Mobile AR generated an estimated $8.9 billion in 2025, primarily through enterprise productivity and B2B2C marketing rather than direct consumer hardware purchases. The report highlights a strategic shift toward diversification into purpose-built form factors, including flat AR displays and full spatial experiences, though specific product launches remain anticipated for 2027 and 2028.

Snap Inc. announced its second-quarter 2026 financial results on August 3, reporting total revenue of $1.599 billion, a 19% year-over-year increase, with net losses narrowing to $164 million from $263 million in the prior year. The company confirmed that its new smart glasses, 'Specs,' will have a commercial launch this fall, with a detailed product reveal scheduled for September 16 in Los Angeles. Developed over ten years, Specs are described by CEO Evan Spiegel as superior to current AI glasses in functionality and more wearable than VR headsets. Direct billing revenue from Lens+, Snapchat+, and Memories Storage grew 85% year-over-year to $316 million, though specific AR-only sales figures were not disclosed. Snap views Specs as its largest long-term opportunity, investing within existing operating expense forecasts while maintaining core business profitability.