Snapchat has apologised and said it will review its approval systems after several artists have accused the photo-sharing app’s staff of copying designs.
A popular feature on Snapchat is the ever-changing Lens filters which users can overlay over their selfies. One of the most popular Lens is a rainbow stream that pours out of your mouth like vomit.
There is always seven lenses to choose from, the often rotate and disappear for good. Despite its popularity, Lenses have caused a bit of a headache for Snapchat; a Bob Marley filter was accused of blackface, a recent promotion for X-Men: Apocalypse wasn’t received well and a ‘beautifying’ lens was also accused of racism.
Make-up artist Argenis Pinal posted a comparison image on Instagram of a zombie pattern he claims Snapchat copied. Pinal told pop culture site The Ringer: “I came across it and I was like, ‘Um, this is exactly the same drawing I did of myself a couple months ago. And it was weird, because I literally just reposted a picture of it a week ago on Instagram. Sort of a re-shout-out to it.”
Back in May, another makeup artist ‘Mykie_’ accused Snapchat of copying her designs. After Snapchat acknowledge the similarities, she called the apology “a win for the artists”.
Snapchat has released a statement saying it will add additional layers of review to curb copycat claims. The statement said: “The creative process sometimes involves inspiration, but it should never result in copying. We have already implemented additional layers of review for all designs. Copying other artists isn’t something we will tolerate, and we’re taking appropriate action internally with those involved.”
