Snapchat reportedly working on a project similar to Google Glass

News that Snapchat has snapped up a renowned specialist of Hollywood visual effects has revived rumors of the American start-up's connected glasses. Business Insider reports that Snapchat has hired visual effects designer Raffael Dickreuter ("Pirates of the Caribbean," "Iron Man") in the aim of developing this rumored project that's supposedly been in the pipeline for two years.

Snapchat seems to be particularly interested in augmented reality. In fact, the start-up bought Vergence Labs, a firm specializing in the production of connected glasses, for around $15 million in 2014. Now, Business Insider reports that Snapchat could be working on a project similar to Google Glass.

Augmented reality basically involves superimposing virtual images onto a real-world environment using a compatible screen, headset or glasses. Photos of Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel wearing what looks like a pair of prototype AR glasses have even been spotted on social media. However, no details about this hypothetical project or the specific role of Raffael Dickreuter have yet been confirmed officially.

His exact role and responsibilities within the firm are still unclear, although he should, theoretically, be responsible for all things relating to augmented reality. He could, for example, be working on 360-degree video, an area he already knows very well and a technology already used by firms like Facebook and Google (via YouTube).

It looks like the tech world will have to wait a little longer to find out more about Snapchat's connected glasses.