Snapchat reportedly plans to release dev kit

If reports are to be believed, you might be able to see a “Log in with Snapchat” option in non-Snapchat apps. TechCrunch reports that Snap is planning to launch a full-fledged developer platform it’s calling Snapkit. This platform will let third-party developers do things like the aforementioned being able log into their apps with Snapchat credentials, or use Snapchat’s camera (and even share back to Snapchat), or even use Bitmoji avatars in their apps. This move might help bring back the followers it’s lost or even attract new users, especially for those wary of using Facebook to sign into new services now. And since Snapchat asks for less information, it might be less risky if a site with your Snapchat login will compromise too much information. It isn’t clear thought which apps will offer login first, this might be dependent on which companies Snap can convince to partner with them. If this does come true, are you willing to use the “Log in with Snapchat” option?

Are we getting another version of Snap’s Spectacles?

We aren’t just getting one new iteration of Snap’s Spectacles. Rumour has it the company is working on two new Spectacles models. The second-generation version will offer bug fixes, performance improvements, and new colours. Meanwhile, the company is also preparing another version that could come with two lenses and feature more advanced camera technology that could cost up to $300. The second-generation model is supposedly far along in the production process and we should expect a Q2 or Q3 launch. With the big US$40 million loss on the first generation verson of Spectacles, Snap is expected to produce fewer units this time around.

On top of this, Snap has reportedly acquired imaging company FiveFocal at the end of 2017 to expand its camera ambitions. Snap is also reportedly in talks with major glasses manufacturers Warby Parker and Luxottica to license out its camera tech.

Source: The Verge

Snapchat might be bringing Stories to the web

Snapchat is looking to snap up more users or at least encourage its existing user base to do use its service more. It’s being reported that the social network is working on bringing its Stories Everywhere to the web or on other apps. It’ll be an embedded web player that would help increase exposure to snaps and hopefully encourage people to download the app or at least watch content from the service. Snapchat has been struggling to attract new users, so it needs to extend beyond its walls. If there’s any truth to these rumours, it’ll give them an advantage over Facebook and Instagram since both don’t offer embedded stories just yet. But with Facebook known to quickly copy Snapchat features, we aren’t sure if that advantage will last long. Snap is refusing to comment on the report.

Source: Engadget

You can now buy Snap's Spectacles via Amazon

After a gimmicky release through pop-up vending machines and direct orders online, Snap is now ready to sell Spectacles to a lot more users. The wearables are now available through Amazon. Its three colors—black, teal, and coral—are available. Snap is selling them directly for the usual US$129.99 price tag and Amazon fulfills the order. The glasses are eligible for next-day delivery. 

Spectacles is Snap's first foray into hardware manufacturing and it lets users record 10- to 30-second clips, which can be uploaded to your Snapchat account, another social media app, or be exported to your camera roll. 

Source: The Verge