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Snapchat's parent company, Snap, has launched a new iteration of its generative AI technology aimed at enhancing the realism of special effects users can apply when filming themselves with their phone cameras. The new AI-powered lenses allow AR developers to create more intricate and lifelike effects for Snapchat users. Snap has also upgraded its developer platform, Lens Studio, making it more efficient for artists and developers to create AR features. The enhanced Lens Studio includes generative AI tools, an AI assistant to help developers with queries, and a tool that generates 3D images from text prompts. Snap is also working on full-body AR experiences to push the boundaries of what is possible with AR on Snapchat. [87263cb7]
Snapchat has made its augmented reality experience, the AR Lens, available as a Chrome extension for web browser users. The extension offers creative and fun filters for online video calls. The AR Lens was previously available in the Snapchat app and a now-defunct desktop camera app. The Snapchat Camera for Chrome extension can be downloaded and installed from Chrome's Web Store, allowing users to transform their display during video conferences and calls with fun filters. Users can also add custom lenses they created for a personalized experience. The AR Lens is only available for video calls via the Chrome browser and not on apps. Snap is known for pioneering augmented reality experiences on smartphones and previously required special devices like headsets or computers. The company has been expanding this feature for wider use, including the Spectacles wearable and now the Chrome extension. Snap's AR Lens is a renowned feature that adds augmented reality filters and overlays to videos, enhancing the video call experience. The extension is available for wider use on Chrome as an easily accessible overlay for video chats. [55b504a9]
In addition to the AR Lens Chrome extension, Snapchat has committed to investing $1.5 billion per year in the development of AI features for its users. The investment will primarily focus on infrastructure and enhancing recommendation algorithms for Stories and the short-form video feature, Spotlight. Snapchat is collaborating with tech giants like Amazon and Google for cloud partnerships to support its AI initiatives. The company's transition from brand advertising to direct response campaigns has proven financially rewarding, with ad revenue growing. Snapchat aims to expand its content offerings and augmented reality experiences with this investment. [a45eea50]
Snapchat has also announced that it will add watermarks to AI-generated images created on its platform. The watermarks, featuring a small ghost logo with a sparkle icon, will appear on images exported or saved to the camera roll. The purpose of the watermarks is to inform viewers that the image was created using AI on Snapchat. This move is a response to political transparency concerns and is similar to Meta's decision to label AI-generated images on its platforms. Snapchat has already rolled out AI-powered tools for paying subscribers to alter or enhance images and uses contextual icons, symbols, and labels in-app to provide transparency to users when they interact with AI-powered features. The watermarks aim to address concerns about deceptive use of AI in content, particularly in the context of political ads. [7833e126]
Snap is introducing new AR experiences powered by GenAI for Snapchatters and the AR developer community. The real-time image model allows users to type in an idea and see it transform instantly through augmented reality. Snap is also launching a GenAI Suite in Lens Studio, allowing AR creators to generate custom ML models and assets to power their Lenses. Snap has partnered with London’s National Portrait Gallery to create Lenses inspired by iconic portrait styles. Lens Studio 5.0, which includes the GenAI Suite, is designed for improved productivity, modularity, and speed. The combination of real-time GenAI and innovative tools aims to revolutionize how creators interact with AR. [903c9928]
A major tech giant is set to unveil AI integration for revolutionizing photo-taking experiences. Features include 'Inclusive Capture' for seamlessly incorporating all individuals into group photos, 'Screen Insight' for enhancing interaction with screenshots, and 'Visual Studio' for streamlined personalized content creation. Ethical implications of AI altering images, impact on traditional roles of photographers and artists, and concerns about privacy and data security are raised. Advantages include new possibilities for creativity and convenience, while disadvantages include diminished human touch and risks to privacy and data security. Navigating these challenges will be crucial for responsible and innovative revolutionizing of visual technology. [0cd0a599]