Snapchat launches AI Lens that turns text prompts into images

Snapchat has introduced a new generative AI Lens called Imagine Lens, allowing users to create and edit images using custom text prompts. The feature is available exclusively to Snapchat+ Platinum and Lens+ subscribers.

Users can enter their own prompts like “turn me into an alien” or “draw a grumpy cat,” or choose from pre-loaded options such as “make me into a funny caricature” or “create a 4-5 panel comic where something unexpected but heroic happens.” The images can be shared in chats, posted to Stories, or saved and shared externally.

Snapchat told TechCrunch: «Imagine Lens is our first open-ended image-generation Lens using text input.» The prompt can be edited by tapping on the caption bar before or after generating the image.

The Lens is powered by a mix of in-house and third-party AI models. While Snap did not confirm whether its recently announced mobile text-to-image model is behind Imagine Lens, the company has said it would support future features.

Earlier this year, Snap also launched Lens Studio, a standalone app and web tool that lets users create AR effects with the help of AI. In March, it introduced video-generating AI Lenses for the first time.

Users on Reddit and X have praised the Lens for its creativity and ease of use, especially highlighting the comic mode and the instant editing feature.