Snap AI Video Lenses: New Generative AI Features
Snapchat Launches Pioneering AI-Powered Video Lenses
Snapchat has announced the release of its inaugural collection of video generative AI Lenses, as reported exclusively to TechCrunch. These innovative Lenses are driven by a generative video model developed internally by Snap.
Availability and Subscription
Currently, three new AI Video Lenses are accessible to subscribers of Snapchat Platinum, the app’s premium tier. This subscription service is priced at $15.99 monthly.
Building on Previous AI Development
This launch follows Snap’s unveiling of an AI video-generation tool during its Partner Summit last September. According to a company spokesperson, the new AI Video Lenses utilize enhanced iterations of the foundational technology.
Strategic Investment in Artificial Intelligence
Snap has long been recognized for its leadership in AR technology. However, the company has also been significantly investing in AI over recent years, mirroring the trend across the broader tech industry.
These new AI Video Lenses represent Snap’s strategic adoption of AI to maintain a competitive edge. They aim to deliver features to users that are not yet available on competing platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Initial Lens Offerings and Future Expansion
At launch, Snapchat is offering three AI Video Lenses, with plans to introduce additional Lenses on a weekly basis. The initial selection includes “Raccoon” and “Fox,” which create animations of cuddly animals interacting with the user.
The third Lens, “Spring Flowers,” generates a dynamic zoom-out effect, revealing the user holding a bouquet of flowers within their Snap.
Accessing and Utilizing the New Lenses
Users can find the new Lenses within the Lens carousel. Selecting a Lens allows users to capture a Snap using either the front or rear camera.
The AI-generated video is then created automatically and saved to the user’s Memories.
Snap's Vision for AI Integration
In a recent blog post, the company stated that these Lenses, powered by their internally developed generative video model, bring state-of-the-art AI tools to Snapchat users through a familiar Lens interface.
Snap emphasized its history of being a pioneer in bringing advanced AR, ML, and AI tools directly to its community, and expressed excitement about the creative content Snapchatters will produce.
The Logic of Integrating AI with Lenses
Snapchat recognizes the inherent suitability of integrating generative AI with Lenses, given the format’s established popularity among its user base.
In-House AI Development
While Snap has previously leveraged AI tools from companies like OpenAI and Google to enhance certain features, it is now also focusing on building its own in-house AI models.
Recent Advances in AI Research
Last month, the company revealed an AI text-to-image research model designed for mobile devices. This model is slated to power upcoming features within Snapchat.
Snap indicated that developing in-house technology will enable the company to provide its community with high-quality AI tools at a reduced operational cost.
