Snapchat Introduces AI Video Lenses Powered by In-house Generative Model for Premium Users

Highlights

• Snapchat introduces AI-powered video Lenses exclusively for Snapchat Platinum subscribers.
• The three AI Video Lenses launched are named Raccoon, Fox and Spring Flowers, with more to be added weekly.
• Snapchat is transitioning from using external AI tools to developing their own in-house AI models.

Snapchat is rolling out its first-ever AI-powered video Lenses, exclusively for subscribers of its premium tier Snapchat Platinum, which costs $15.99 per month. These Lenses use Snap’s own generative video model built in-house, the company revealed in a blog post.

This launch follows Snap’s announcement of an AI video-generation tool at its Partner Summit last September. A Snap spokesperson confirmed that the new AI Video Lenses are powered by updated versions of this technology.

Snapchat has long been a leader in augmented reality (AR), but it has also been investing heavily in AI to stay competitive. With these new Lenses, Snap is offering something unique, features that aren’t available on Instagram or TikTok.

As of now, Snapchat is introducing three AI Video Lenses:

• “Raccoon” and “Fox” – These animate furry animals that snuggle up with you.
• “Spring Flowers” – Creates a zoom-out effect, revealing the user holding a bouquet.

Snapchat plans to add more AI Video Lenses every week. Users can access them from the Lens carousel, capture a Snap using either their front or back camera, and the AI-generated video will automatically save to Memories.

“These Lenses, powered by our in-house built generative video model, bring some of the most cutting-edge AI tools available today to Snapchatters through a familiar Lens format. We have a long history of being first movers to bring advanced AR, ML, and AI tools directly to our community, and we’re excited to see what Snapchatters create,” the company wrote in the blog post.

While Snap has previously used AI tools from OpenAI and Google, it is now focusing on building its own in-house AI models.

Just last month, the company introduced an AI text-to-image research model for mobile devices, which will power more Snapchat features soon. By developing its own AI, Snap says it can offer high-quality tools while keeping operating costs lower.

FAQs

Q1. What is the cost of Snapchat Platinum?

Answer. Snapchat Platinum costs $15.99 per month.

Q2. What are the initial AI Video Lenses introduced by Snapchat?

Answer. The initial AI Video Lenses are Raccoon and Fox, which animate furry animals, and Spring Flowers, which creates a zoom-out effect revealing the user holding a bouquet.

Q3. Why is Snapchat focusing on building its own in-house AI models?

Answer. By developing its own AI, Snap says it can offer high-quality tools while keeping operating costs lower.