Snapchat’s new Lens lets you create AI images using text prompts

Snapchat is launching a new Lens that lets users create and edit images using a text-to-image AI generator, the company told TechCrunch exclusively. The new “Imagine Lens” is available to Snapchat+ Platinum and Lens+ subscribers.

Imagine Lens allows users to create, edit, and recreate Snaps by entering their own prompts. They can then share the image with their friends, post it to their Story, or share it outside out Snapchat.

While Snapchat already has numerous generative AI Lenses, the company notes that Imagine Lens is its first open prompt image generation Lens.

Users can generate images using custom prompts, like “create an image of a grumpy cat” or “turn me into an alien.” The Lens also features pre-loaded prompts that people can use, such as “Turn me into a four to five panel comic where something unexpected but heroic happens,” “Make me into a funny caricature,” and “Make this person skydive.”

Snapchat notes that users can always tap the caption bar to edit their prompt into anything they’d like.

Earlier this year, Snap unveiled an AI text-to-image research model for mobile devices that it said would power some of Snapchat’s features in the future. While Snap didn’t confirm whether this model powers the new Lens, it did note that its Lenses are built using a combination of both in-house models and industry leading AI models.

Snapchat+ Platinum and Lens+ subscribers can find the new Lens in the front of the Lens Carousel or in the Exclusive category. After selecting the Lens, they can tap the caption to enter or edit the prompt. A Platinum subscription costs $15.99 per month, while a Lens+ subscription costs $8.99 per month.

Snap has been seen as a leader in AR, but has also been investing in AI over the past few years alongside nearly every other tech company.

A few months ago, the company launched a standalone Lens Studio iOS app and web tool designed to make it easier for anyone to create AR Lenses using AI and simple tools. And in March, it rolled out its first-ever video generative AI Lenses.