Snapchat has unveiled a new generation of lenses powered by generative AI, now available globally, at its Snap Partner Summit 2023.
Snapchat users can now transform themselves and the world around them into an animated sci-fi scene through the cosmic lens.
Snapchat revealed figures that show approximately two out of every three Snapchat users engage with AR on the app daily and play with lenses over 6 billion times per day on average.
Bobby Murphy, Snapchat’s chief technology officer, said that the excitement around AR is only growing.
“By 2025, nearly 75% of the global population and almost all smartphone users will be frequent AR users. As more people are engaging with AR every day, our technology delivers more value by surfacing the most compelling AR experience for them at the right time.
“We’re constantly pushing the boundaries of how AR is created,” he added.
With millions of lenses available on Snapchat, the company is making it easier for users to find the most helpful, relevant lenses at the right time – making Snapchat feel like the most personal camera in the world.
The app is beginning to recommend lenses that fit with the context of a photo or video a user has captured. Through a combination of visual understanding of what’s in the camera’s view and APIs that understand factors, including the local weather forecast and time of day, lenses are dynamically surfaced to match the moment.
Over the next few months, users will find more lens recommendations when people or pets are captured in the frame.
The platform is also testing ways to make it faster to add AR to Memories. Users will see their recent shots alongside lenses in the Snapchat camera, so they’re right on hand when inspiration strikes for a throwback snap.
Improvements on the lens carousel ranking algorithms to recommend lenses based on users’ unique preferences and updated the AR bar.
The updates offer the AR creator community more surfaces for their lenses to be recommended to users.
Throughout the year, Snapchat will roll out a suite of new tools in lens studio that let AR creators select the scenarios where lenses will be the most relevant and helpful for users.
Murphy added: “Our vision is to weave computing seamlessly into the world – and support our vibrant community of AR creators, developers, and partners.”
Microsoft Teams also recently introduced Snapchat Lenses into video meetings, to help colleagues connect with co-workers and have fun collaborating during their workday.
From teammates at work to rooting for the same team, we’ve given game day a new jolt of energy.
Through new partnerships and innovative applications of AR, sports viewers can keep up with all the must-see moments, express their fandom, and get in on the action whether they’re at home or in the stadium.
See also: Snapchat reveal Family Centre updates to support parents safeguarding their children online
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Top image: Microsoft Teams x Snapchat lenses