From the ubiquitous puppy filter to the flattering flower crown, Snapchat has allowed us all to become early adopters of augmented reality. Now, it seems the platform is seeking to move into hardware, joining the Bluetooth Special Interest Group ahead of the supposed launch of a pair of AR goggles.

If you knew that this was the only chance you’d ever get to read this sentence, would you pay closer attention? Snapchat’s ephemeral messages are a more human way of relating digitally, but they offer more than just a carefree share. Their fleeting nature asks us to stop and pay attention.

How are new parents finding solace online? Why are people broadcasting their lives to friends? Will artificial intelligence transform how we talk with brands? And what motivates social media users to click that ‘share’ button?

People prefer wearable devices that are unobtrusive, fit into daily life and existing habits, and look stylish. But even if all these boxes are ticked, do they really want to wear technology on their wrists, faces and around their necks?