It’s no secret that filters can transform us into almost anything – whether it be a dog or a dancing hotdog.
But Snapchat has now taken this up a notch, with the launch of a new tool that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to completely reimagine your photographs.
The so-called ‘Dreams’ feature will allow users to create fantasy-themed AI selfies in just a few taps – and the results are unbelievably realistic.
Deep-sea mermaids and Renaissance-era royals are among the initial pack of eight complimentary Dreams that can be created, while others start at $0.99.
The AI tool will be launched first in Australia and New Zealand, before making its way to other Snapchatters across the globe in a couple of weeks.
Snapchat’s ‘Dreams’ feature can transform your selfies using generative AI technology
‘When Lenses arrived in 2015, Snapchatters were delighted as they transformed their look through augmented reality – they sprouted dog ears, changed hair color in an instant, and shared with their friends who couldn’t wait to react to the fun,’ Snapchat said.
‘Recent advancements in AI are unlocking even more possibilities. Starting today, with a new Gen AI powered feature called Dreams, Snapchatters can create fantastical images that let them try on new identities–be it a mermaid in a deep-seascape, or a renaissance era royal.
The AI-centred feature comes just months after Snapchat launched ‘My AI’ – an ‘experimental and friendly’ chatbot designed to be a personal sidekick to each Snapchatter.
Powered by OpenAI, this can be used to come up with dinner suggestions, plan an itinery or even write poetry.
Dreams is a step up from this, with the tech titan looking to ‘double down’ on the use of AI in everyday life.
Generative AI, which backs the tool, is a type of model that can be used to create new content such as audio, text or images by learning input data.
ChatGPT, Replika and Jukebox are among the other platforms that make use of this in the midst of an AI boom.
When available, the new feature will be viewable in the ‘Memories’ section of Snapchat – accessible by swiping up from the ‘Camera’.
When available, the new feature will be viewable in the ‘Memories’ section of Snapchat – accessible by swiping up from the ‘Camera’
Snapchat’s Dreams feature makes use of your selfies to create new AI imagery
Here, ‘Dreams’ can be tapped, which gives users the option to follow a number of prompts and upload selfies.
One of eight themes can also be chosen here, including the deep sea mermaid and Renaissance royal concepts.
After several minutes, a user will then see up to eight iterations of themselves immersed in whatever theme they’ve chosen.
Snapchat claims that other new themes will be dropping regularly following the launch.