Snap, the parent company of Snapchat, has lost a senior executive overseeing its augmented reality (AR) glasses project, Specs, just months before the highly anticipated commercial release. Scott Myers, previously the Senior Vice President of Specs, reportedly left the company following a disagreement with CEO Evan Spiegel.
Executive Departure and Company Response
While Snap publicly stated that Myers “decided to step down” and wished him well, sources indicate the departure was less amicable. Tech blog Sources first reported a “blow-up” between Myers and Spiegel, a claim Snap denies but refuses to elaborate on. The company maintains its commitment to launching Specs later this year, emphasizing “disciplined execution” and long-term value for partners and investors.
Strategic Importance of Specs
The timing of Myers’ exit is significant. Snap has heavily invested in AR technology, spinning off the Specs team into a separate subsidiary, Specs Inc., to streamline operations and accelerate product development. This move signals the company’s serious intent to compete in the emerging AR market. Losing a top executive now raises questions about potential disruptions to the launch timeline or strategic direction.
What This Means
The exact nature of the dispute remains unclear, with details limited to vague references to “strategy.” However, internal conflicts at this stage could suggest fundamental disagreements about the product’s vision or execution. The departure also highlights the high-stakes environment surrounding Snap’s AR ambitions, where success hinges on flawless coordination and rapid innovation.
Snap’s ability to maintain momentum on Specs despite this internal setback will be closely watched by investors and competitors alike. The launch is crucial for establishing Snap as a key player in the AR landscape, and any delays or missteps could significantly impact the company’s future growth.
