Snapchat has unveiled its innovative venture into the world of artificial intelligence with the launch of the platform’s first-ever video generative AI Lenses. The creative minds at Snap have crafted these Lenses using a specially developed generative video model, bringing a unique twist to their offerings on the platform. To access these cutting-edge Lenses, users will need to subscribe to Snapchat’s premium tier, Snapchat Platinum, which is priced at $15.99 per month.
This exciting development follows Snap’s preview of an AI video-generation tool at their Partner Summit last September. According to a company spokesperson, these new AI Video Lenses utilize advanced versions of the technological foundation introduced last year.
Snapchat has long been an innovator in the realm of augmented reality (AR), and it seems the company is now leveraging artificial intelligence to maintain its competitive edge. By launching these AI-infused features, Snap aims to offer something fresh and exclusive that users won’t find on competing platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Initially, Snapchat is rolling out three AI Video Lenses, with plans to regularly expand the collection in the weeks to follow. The debut trio includes “Raccoon” and “Fox,” which bring animated furry companions into your snaps, and the “Spring Flowers” Lens that impressively zooms out to show the snapshot’s subject holding a lovely bouquet.
To access these new Lenses, users can find them within the Lens carousel. Once selected, these Lenses can be used with either the front or back camera, and the AI-generated video will automatically save to your Memories.
The company expressed in a blog post that these Lenses integrate the best of their advanced generative video model, offering Snapchatters some of the most sophisticated AI tools available today through a familiar format. Snapchat has a tradition of pioneering new technologies like AR, machine learning (ML), and AI, directly engaging its community with these advancements. The company is eager to see the creative output from its users with these new tools.
Snap’s foray into AI isn’t entirely new, as they have previously collaborated with tech giants like OpenAI and Google. However, their recent efforts indicate a shift towards developing internal models. Last month, Snap introduced an AI text-to-image research model designed for mobile devices, which is expected to power more Snapchat features soon. This move toward self-reliance is aimed at delivering high-quality AI experiences to its community while managing operational costs effectively.
With this strategy, Snapchat is not only strengthening its technological infrastructure but also continuing to enrich the user experience by introducing state-of-the-art features. The integration of AI into their popular Lenses format seems like a natural evolution for a company dedicated to innovation.
