Snapchat’s parent firm, Snap Inc, announced its latest generative AI technology on Tuesday. These new technologies promise more lifelike special effects for phone camera users, a strategy to stay ahead of social media giants.
Snap, a pioneer in augmented reality (AR) technology that mixes digital effects into real-world photographs and videos, wants more users and marketers with its lenses. Even though Snap is smaller than industry titans like Meta, its AR concentration is notable.
AR developers may now construct AI-driven lenses, and Snapchat users can use them. The Santa Monica-based startup also improved Lens Studio, allowing artists and developers to create AR features for Snapchat and other platforms.
Snap’s Chief Technology Officer, Bobby Murphy, noted that the new Lens Studio reduces AR effect development time from weeks to hours, enabling more complex designs.
“These tools not only expand the creative possibilities but are also user-friendly, enabling newcomers to quickly create something unique,” Murphy said in a chat.
Lens Studio’s new version adds an AI assistant to help developers and a feature that generates 3D images from text prompts, removing the need to build models.
Early AR technology might put a virtual hat on a person’s head. Snap’s new features let developers make more realistic lenses that move smoothly and match video illumination. Murphy also suggested that full-body AR experiences may generate a new outfit, which is now difficult.
Snap innovates and improves the user experience by pushing AR technologies to stay competitive in social media.