Snap Inc. Faces Leadership Shake-Up Amid AR Glasses Launch
Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, is navigating a significant leadership transition as it prepares to launch the latest version of its augmented reality (AR) glasses, known as Specs. The departure of Scott Myers, Senior Vice President of Specs, has raised questions about the company’s strategic direction and internal dynamics.
Leadership Departure at a Pivotal Time
Scott Myers, who joined Snap in 2020, has stepped down from his role as SVP of Specs. His tenure at Snap was marked by his leadership in developing the company’s AR hardware. Prior to his time at Snap, Myers held positions at SpaceX, Apple, and Nokia, bringing a wealth of experience to the tech industry.
Reports suggest that Myers’ departure was due to a disagreement with Snap CEO Evan Spiegel over strategic decisions related to the Specs project. While the exact nature of the dispute remains undisclosed, it underscores potential challenges within Snap’s leadership as the company ventures into the competitive AR market.
A Snap spokesperson confirmed Myers’ resignation, stating, Scott has decided to step down from his role at Snap. We thank him for his contributions and wish him the best in his next chapter. The company also emphasized its commitment to the upcoming Specs launch, adding, We can’t wait to bring Specs to the world later this year. We remain focused on disciplined execution and long-term value creation for our developer partners, community, and shareholders.
Strategic Moves and Organizational Changes
In January 2026, Snap took a significant step by spinning off the Specs team into a distinct subsidiary named Specs Inc. This move was intended to provide greater operational focus and alignment, signaling the company’s dedication to advancing its AR hardware initiatives.
The development of Specs has been a complex endeavor. In a previous interview, Myers described the process as an entirely new paradigm, highlighting the challenges in achieving an optimal form factor for the device. He humorously noted, I don’t want to see people wearing a wire coming out of the back of their head, emphasizing the importance of user-friendly design in wearable technology.
Broader Leadership Transitions at Snap
Myers’ departure is part of a series of leadership changes at Snap. In December 2025, the company appointed Matthew McRae, CEO of Arlo Technologies, to its board of directors. McRae’s extensive experience in technology and product innovation is expected to provide valuable insights as Snap continues to expand its product offerings.
Additionally, Snap’s General Counsel and Secretary, Michael O’Sullivan, announced his intention to leave the company by the end of 2025. O’Sullivan, who joined Snap in 2017, played a crucial role in guiding the company through various legal and strategic challenges. His departure necessitates a search for a successor to oversee Snap’s legal affairs.
Implications for Snap’s AR Ambitions
The leadership changes at Snap come at a critical juncture as the company aims to establish a foothold in the burgeoning AR market. The success of Specs is pivotal for Snap’s growth strategy, as AR technology continues to gain traction among consumers and developers.
The departure of key executives like Myers and O’Sullivan may pose challenges in maintaining continuity and momentum in Snap’s AR initiatives. However, the addition of experienced leaders like McRae to the board could provide fresh perspectives and drive innovation within the company.
Looking Ahead
As Snap prepares for the commercial release of Specs later this year, the company must navigate the complexities of leadership transitions while staying focused on its strategic objectives. The AR market is highly competitive, with major tech players investing heavily in similar technologies. Snap’s ability to adapt to internal changes and external market dynamics will be crucial in determining the success of its AR endeavors.
In conclusion, Snap Inc. is at a pivotal moment in its journey, balancing leadership changes with ambitious product launches. The coming months will be telling in how the company manages these transitions and positions itself in the evolving landscape of augmented reality.
