US social media group Snap Inc. has added new artificial intelligence- (AI) enabled features to its instant messaging platform for its Snapchat+ subscribers.
The company said users who signed up for Snapchat’s $3.99 monthly plan will have access to generative AI (genAI) capabilities, including creating and sending AI-generated images based on a text prompt, which can be written by the user or from a feature’s provided prompts.
Plus subscribers will also be able to use the app’s Dream AI selfie generator with others, allowing them to edit in their friends on their own selfies. Snapchat+ users will receive one free pack of eight Dreams per month, according to Snap.
Prior to the new feature, the platform’s paid subscription service only facilitated AI image creation for bitmoji backgrounds and chat wallpapers.
Snap did not reveal the model specifically being powered by the feature, although it stated that it has a few deals with partners to utilize its foundational models.
In addition, the firm is offering a new AI-powered extend tool that automatically fills in the background of a zoomed-in photo.
The new set of features is already available for Snapchat+ subscribers, but the regional accessibility may vary.
Stepping Up Snapchat’s AI Features
Snap’s latest move showed its aim to enhance Snapchat’s AI capabilities and develop its existing offers.
The new features added to the suite of AI facilities Snapchat and other apps have released throughout 2023.
The app’s My AI chatbot, introduced in April, has enabled users to receive AI-generated photos, while Dreams has been live for several months.
Snap also recently revealed a beta of Lens Studio, which allows developers to create filters with OpenAI Inc.’s ChatGPT.
The company said Snapchat+, launched in June, has increased its current subscriber base to over 7 million, with its early access offering having its best month in terms of in-app revenue, signaling resilience in its growth.
The paid subscription plan posted net revenue above $20 million for the first time in November, while it generated double-digit subscription revenue in nearly every country it is available.
