Snapchat has reaffirmed its commitment to creating memorable camera experiences for users, launching a host of new tools for creators and businesses.
As part of this year’s Partner Summit, Snap made significant announcements across about its camera and how it relates to developers, creators and augmented reality.
“Snap is a camera company,” the company said.
“For many years we have referenced our long-term vision for our camera, augmented reality, and ‘computing overlaid on the world around us.’”
Headlining the updates is changes to Lenses, which will see new shopping capabilities for brands and more experiences for users.
One such improvement is ‘Screenshop’, which allows users to scan someone’s outfit or use saved photos to shop similar looks from hundreds of brands.
There are also big updates to how AR technology is being used to assist with virtual try-on.
New ‘True Size’ technology enables accurate sizing for eyewear and sunglasses, while 3D Body Mesh and Cloth Simulation allows brands to begin experimenting with full apparel outfits.
“Whether you’re looking out at the horizon, down at your feet, dancing with friends, or just home with your dog, our Camera will be ready to help you capture the moment. Over time, we’ll continue adding new Shortcuts for different scenes, including suggestions for Spotlight, said Bobby Murphy, CTO, Snap.
New audience stats
As well as revealing the various updates, Snap also highlighted some significant new user statistics.
According to the announcement, Snapchat now reaches over 500 million monthly active users (MAU), nearly one of every two smartphone users in the US.
While there is no doubt a strong US presence, 40 per cent of the global community is located outside of North America and Europe, with daily average users in India growing over 100 per cent year-on-year over the last five quarters.
Users are also particularly engaged with the app, with data suggesting people open Snapchat 30 times every day.
“We’re focused on contributing to human progress by empowering people to express themselves, live in the moment, learn about the world, and have fun together,” said Snap CEO Evan Spiegel.
