Snapchat Lens+ Subscription: New $8.99 Tier Launched

Snapchat Introduces Lens+ Subscription Tier

Snapchat revealed the introduction of a new subscription level, designated “Lens+,” on Wednesday. This premium tier is priced at $8.99 monthly and focuses on providing users with exclusive access to a range of Lenses and augmented reality (AR) experiences.

Expanding Snapchat+ Benefits

Beyond the advantages already included in the standard Snapchat+ subscription, which costs $3.99 per month, Lens+ empowers users to utilize hundreds of Lenses. These tools facilitate interactive “play, creation, and sharing” of Snaps with their connections, according to the company.

New AR Experiences and Creator Collaboration

Snapchat detailed in a blog post that the initial offering will feature Lenses developed by Snapchat itself and a selection of creators. This includes innovative AI-powered video Lenses, a new Bitmoji Game Lens, and further additions.

The company plans to introduce new AR experiences on a weekly basis, continually expanding the value proposition for subscribers.

No Existing Lenses Will Be Restricted

A spokesperson for Snap confirmed to TechCrunch via email that no Lenses previously available at no cost will be made exclusive to the Lens+ tier.

Monetization Opportunities for Lens Creators

In the coming months, select Lens creators will gain the ability to monetize their exclusive creations. This presents a new avenue for them to increase their earnings on the platform.

Snapchat has not yet disclosed the specifics of the revenue-sharing model for these creators.

Snapchat+ Subscriber Growth

Since its launch in 2022, Snapchat+ has attracted over 14 million paying subscribers. The social media network credits this paid subscription service as a significant contributor to its revenue growth.

Recent Revenue Increase

Snap reported first-quarter revenue of $1.36 billion in April, representing a 14% increase year-over-year. The company attributed this growth to the expansion of its Snapchat+ subscription base and advancements in its advertising capabilities.

Strategic Revenue Expansion

By introducing another subscription tier, Snap aims to further enhance its revenue streams by placing its more sophisticated Lenses and AR experiences behind a paywall.

It is acknowledged that not all users will be willing to pay for access to these enhanced features.

Platinum Snapchat+ Tier

Snapchat also provides a Platinum Snapchat+ tier at $14.99 per month. This tier removes advertisements and grants access to all benefits included in both the standard Snapchat+ and Lens+ subscriptions.