Snapchat has unveiled a new feature for its premium subscribers: AI-powered video effects called Video Gen AI Lenses. Available exclusively to Snapchat+ Platinum members for $14.99 per month, these lenses leverage Snap’s in-house generative video model, offering cutting-edge AI tools within the familiar Lens format.
Currently, Platinum subscribers have access to three initial AI video lenses: Raccoon, Fox, and Spring Flowers. The Raccoon lens adds a playful group of raccoons to videos, while the Fox lens features a curious red fox peeking over the user’s shoulder. The Spring Flowers lens incorporates photorealistic flowers in various colors with a dynamic zoom-out effect. While the current selection is limited, Snap promises to expand the library with new video AI lenses weekly.
Exploring Snapchat’s Video Gen AI Lenses
Snapchat’s AI Video lenses.
Access to these innovative AI video lenses requires a Snapchat+ Platinum subscription, which also provides an ad-free experience within the Lens and Story sections, eliminating sponsored Snaps.
Using the New AI Video Lenses
These generative AI video lenses are prominently displayed at the beginning of the Lens carousel within the Snapchat app. They can be applied to media captured with both the front and rear cameras. While the AI video is processing, users can multitask, engaging in other activities like messaging or recording new clips. Upon completion, the AI-enhanced Snap is automatically saved to the Memories section.
Sharing and Distributing AI-Enhanced Snaps
Similar to regular Snaps, content created with Video Gen AI Lenses can be seamlessly shared to Stories, Spotlight, or directly with contacts.
Lenses vs. Filters: Understanding the Difference
It’s important to distinguish between Lenses and Filters within the Snapchat ecosystem. Lenses introduce augmented reality (AR) effects to Snaps, while Filters primarily apply artistic color overlays to photos and videos. Snapchat offers two main types of lenses: Face Lenses, which transform users’ faces into fun characters or add accessories, and World Lenses, which augment the surrounding environment with animated effects.
Expanding Creative Possibilities with Lens Studio
Snapchat’s free Lens Studio toolkit empowers users to create and share their own lenses and custom face filters. This platform also incorporates generative AI capabilities, enabling users to design custom lenses using text or image prompts, much like generating images with AI models like Gemini or ChatGPT. An integrated AI assistant further aids users in their creative projects. While the future availability of user-created video AI lenses remains unclear, the existing Lens Studio infrastructure hints at the potential for expanded user-generated AI content within Snapchat.
The Future of AI-Powered Creativity on Snapchat
The introduction of Video Gen AI Lenses marks a significant step in integrating generative AI into social media platforms. While the current implementation is limited to premium subscribers and offers a curated selection of lenses, the potential for expansion and user customization is substantial. This development raises exciting possibilities for future creative expression and personalized content creation within Snapchat.
