GoKawiilSpecs are equipped with two cameras, which enable the hand-tracking controls. The interface is similar to the last generation: you point with your index finger to move a cursor around the display and pinch your thumb and index finger together to select. You can also access the main menu and some other controls by opening your palm and tapping on the relevant shortcuts.
The hand tracking was intuitive and responsive. The only issue I experienced was when some hair fell in front of one of the cameras, which caused the cursor to jump around the display somewhat erratically, but it resolved as soon as I pushed my hair back.
Karissa Bell for Engadget
The actual display was bright and easy to see, though there was some variation based on the lighting conditions of my space. Content looked a bit sharper when I was in a darker environment. Specs also have an adjustable dimming function that can help with brighter environments, but I wasn't able to use it extensively.
One significant improvement from the last generation of glasses is that the AR content can now "follow" you around as you physically move around your space. When I tried the last generation of Spectacles a few years ago, I noted that it was at times frustrating to have to look around to find the AR content I knew was there but couldn't quite see. But Snap OS now has the ability to "anchor" a window so it can move around your view as you physically move in your surroundings.
It also helps that Specs have a slightly wider field of view than their predecessor. At 51 degrees, it felt big enough to be useful, even though there were still times when content was cut off. I could often address this by rearranging the size and position of the windows, but that also takes away from the immersiveness.
Snap
Evan Spiegel has described Specs as a "wearable computer" that's suitable for doing actual work in augmented reality. I didn't get a chance to try out too many productivity-focused apps, but I was able to open Google Docs in a browser window and type with a Bluetooth keyboard, as well as the built-in AR keyboard. I think the AR keyboard would only be suitable for a few words at a time, but typing with a physical keyboard felt pretty natural.
A lot of the AR experiences I've seen on past versions of Spectacles have felt somewhat gimmicky, so I was happy to see that Snap has invested in some utility-focused apps. I tried out a Mapbox-powered navigation app for walking directions, and a translation app that was able to project an English captions of someone speaking Italian. Snap also has an AR measuring tool and a "whiteboard" app for sketching out ideas, though I didn't get to try these.
Karissa Bell for Engadget
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