In yet another bid to convince us that augmented reality (AR) glasses are the future, Niantic has teamed up with Snap to launch experiences for the fifth-generation Spectacles.
This collaboration aims to take augmented reality (AR) to the next level, blending Niantic’s expertise in location-based AR with Snap’s advanced hardware to bring more immersive, real-world experiences to users.
Niantic, best known for getting people off their couches with Pokémon GO, is now focused on bringing AR to the masses. The idea is to move beyond staring at phone screens and instead use hands-free, heads-up AR technology to explore, exercise, and connect with others in real life.
One of the first products from this partnership is Peridot Beyond, an outdoor-friendly version of Niantic’s AR pet game Peridot, specially designed for Spectacles. Players will be able to take their virtual pets, or “Dots,” on real-world adventures—pet them, explore with them, and even play catch. The game promises to evolve with features like multiplayer interactions, where users can interact with others and their Dots in the real world.
Additionally, Niantic is expanding its Scaniverse app with the release of Scaniverse 4 for iOS, allowing users to capture realistic 3D images on their phones. These images, called “splats,” can be imported into Snap’s Lens Studio, opening up new creative possibilities for 3D content on Spectacles. Everyday environments can now become interactive through augmented reality, transforming how people engage with familiar spaces.
This partnership between Niantic and Snap is being hailed as a significant step toward a future where AR glasses become more mainstream. Both companies are focused on making augmented reality a more seamless part of daily life, from gaming to creative expression. While widespread adoption of AR glasses may still be on the horizon, Niantic and Snap are laying the groundwork for what could be the next big leap in tech.