snap emphasizes commerce in updates to its camera and ar platforms
Snapchat Enhances Shopping and AR Capabilities
During the Partner Summit, Snap unveiled a series of enhancements to its developer tools and Lens Studio, with a significant focus on integrating shopping more seamlessly into the Snapchat platform.
Scan Feature Receives Commerce Upgrade
The company’s Scan feature, powered by computer vision, has been updated to include commerce functionalities. This feature, currently utilized by approximately 170 million users monthly, analyzes the user’s camera view to provide relevant information.
Now prominently positioned within the app’s camera section, Scan introduces Screenshop. Users can scan an outfit worn by a friend and receive tailored shopping suggestions from a wide range of brands.
New Features Expand Utility
Snap is also leveraging this technology for an upcoming feature. This will allow users to photograph ingredients available in their kitchen and receive recipe recommendations sourced from Allrecipes that incorporate those ingredients.
These developments are part of a larger strategy to proactively suggest relevant lenses to users based on their camera’s current focus.
Business Profiles and AR Advancements
Businesses can now create public profiles within Snapchat. These profiles will showcase their complete range of offerings, including Lenses, Highlights, Stories, and products available through the Shop feature.
Snap continues to prioritize business solutions within its augmented reality ecosystem. API integrations are being refined to enhance lens intelligence.
Improved AR Try-On Experiences
Retailers will be able to utilize the Business Manager to connect their product catalogs. This ensures that virtual try-on lenses only display items that are currently in stock.
Collaborations with Farfetch and Prada will introduce further improvements to the AR platform. These include advancements in 3D mesh technology, resulting in more realistic virtual try-on experiences.
Users will also have the ability to navigate through different items using voice commands and visual gestures.
Snap’s Vision for the Future
“We’re excited about the power of our camera platform to bring Snapchatters together with the businesses they care about in meaningful ways,” stated Carolina Arguelles Navas, Snap’s global AR product lead.
She further emphasized the community’s growing desire to experience, engage with, and learn about new products from the convenience of their homes.
Lucas Matney
Lucas Matney: A Profile
Lucas Matney previously held the position of Senior Editor at TechCrunch. His work was centered in San Francisco, California.
Background and Role
As a Senior Editor, Matney was responsible for overseeing and contributing to the technology news coverage provided by TechCrunch. He played a key role in shaping the publication’s editorial direction.
His location in San Francisco placed him at the heart of the technology industry, facilitating access to important events and sources. This proximity was crucial for his reporting.
TechCrunch and its Focus
TechCrunch is a leading online publisher focused on technology news, startups, and venture capital. It provides in-depth reporting and analysis of the tech landscape.
- Key Areas of Coverage: Startups, venture funding, and emerging technologies.
- Audience: Entrepreneurs, investors, and technology enthusiasts.
- Location: While global in scope, TechCrunch maintains a significant presence in Silicon Valley.
Matney’s role at TechCrunch involved contributing to this coverage, offering insights into the latest developments within the tech sector. He was instrumental in delivering news to a broad audience.
Editorial Responsibilities
The responsibilities of a Senior Editor typically include managing a team of writers, editing articles, and developing story ideas. Matney’s position demanded a strong understanding of both journalism and the technology industry.
Furthermore, the role required the ability to identify and cultivate sources, ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of reported information. He was dedicated to providing reliable tech news.