Expanding Access to Snapchat’s AR Features Through Skype

Snapchat has once again made a move to broaden access to its augmented reality (A.R.) features, this time through a new extension for Skype. This new feature will allow Skype users to apply Snap Lenses within their chats, enhancing the overall experience for the more than 80 million monthly active Skype users.

According to Snap, the addition of Lenses to Skype chats will make conversations more personalized and fun. With a variety of Lenses to choose from, users can add elements like glitter beards, disco glasses, or raining hearts to their video chats. While users could already access Snap Lenses through a Chrome extension, the new integration with Skype opens up the feature to a wider audience.

This latest move signals a strategic shift for Snap, as the company aims to expand its reach and engagement through third-party platforms. Last year, Snap discontinued its Snap Camera app, which allowed users to apply Lenses to video calls on platforms like Zoom. By reintroducing Lenses through extensions like the one for Skype, Snap is seeking to increase its exposure and attract more users to its platform.

One of the key motivations behind Snap’s decision to extend access to Lenses is the potential for increased revenue. By making Lenses available on popular platforms like Skype, Snap can reach a broader audience and generate more interest in its app. As the company focuses on maximizing its revenue opportunities, the decision to expand Lenses to more surfaces makes strategic sense.

Future Plans

Snapchat has announced that it will continue to add more Lenses to its Skype library in the coming months, aligning with the latest trends in augmented reality. This ongoing expansion of features not only enhances the user experience but also keeps Snap at the forefront of A.R. technology.

Overall, the integration of Snap Lenses into Skype represents a significant step for Snap in its efforts to increase user engagement and drive revenue growth. By leveraging existing platforms like Skype, Snap is able to reach a wider audience and provide users with new and exciting ways to connect through augmented reality.