Snapchat is rolling out its new “Imagine Lens”—an AI-powered image-generation tool—to all users for free.

The feature first launched in September but was only available to paid subscribers. Now, everyone can try it. With the Imagine Lens, users can edit or create images using their own prompts and imagination.

What Is Imagine Lens?

Imagine Lens allows users to generate unique Snaps simply by typing a text prompt. Once an image is created, users can:

• Share it with friends via chat.

• Post it to their Story.

• Export and share it outside of Snapchat.

Unlike Snap’s existing AI-powered lenses, Imagine Lens is its first fully open prompt tool. That means users aren’t limited to preset effects; they can create virtually anything they imagine.

Read More: Snapchat Introduces $8.99 Lens+ Subscription With Premium AR Filters

How It Works

• Users type prompts such as

  • “Create an image of a grumpy cat.”

  • “Turn me into an alien.”

• The Lens also comes with pre-loaded prompts for inspiration:

  • “Make me into a funny caricature.”

  • “Turn me into a comic strip with a heroic twist.”

  • “Make this person skydive.”

Once an image is generated, users can edit the text prompt through the caption bar to refine the result or create a new variation.

Powered by AI Innovation

Earlier this year, Snap revealed it had developed a text-to-image research model optimized for mobile devices. Although the company hasn’t confirmed if this exact model powers Imagine Lens, Snap says the tool uses a blend of:

• In-house AI models

• Industry-leading generative AI systems

This dual approach ensures images are high-quality, fast, and optimized for Snapchat’s mobile-first platform.

Read more: Amazon Lens Live: Scan Any Item and Quickly Find Matching Products For You

Competing With Meta and OpenAI

Snapchat’s decision to make Imagine Lens free comes as Meta and OpenAI launch advanced AI video tools that also attract younger users.

For example, OpenAI’s Sora can create short videos based on a person’s face and voice. Users can share these “AI cameos” and star in clips together—something that’s catching attention across social media.

This competition pushes Snapchat to keep innovating, and making its AI Lens free helps it stay relevant and fun.

Who Can Use It and Where

Until now, the Imagine Lens was only available to Lens+ and Snapchat Platinum subscribers. With the new rollout, free users will also get a limited number of image generations.

The feature is launching first in the U.S., with Canada, Great Britain, and Australia coming next.

To find it, open the Lens Carousel inside Snapchat—it should appear near the front. You can also search “Imagine Lens” by name.

When creating an image, just tap the caption bar to write your own prompt, or pick from preloaded suggestions if you need ideas.

Snap’s Bigger AI and AR Push

Snapchat has long been seen as a leader in augmented reality. But in recent years, it has doubled down on AI as well:

• Lens Studio Tools (2024): New iOS and web-based apps for easy AR creation.

• AI Video Lenses (March 2024): First-ever generative AI lenses for video.

• Creator Empowerment: Simplifying tools for developers and everyday users to design custom effects.

By merging AR + AI, Snap is betting on keeping its creative edge as other platforms like TikTok, Meta, and OpenAI push into similar spaces.

FAQs

1. What makes Imagine Lens different from other Snapchat lenses?

Unlike traditional AR filters, Imagine Lens is an open prompt generator that lets users create entirely new images instead of applying preset effects.

2. Do I need a subscription to use Imagine Lens?

Yes. The feature is only available for Snapchat+ Platinum ($15.99/month) and Lens+ ($8.99/month) subscribers.

3. Can I share AI-generated images outside of Snapchat?

Yes. Users can export their creations and post them across other platforms.

4. Does Imagine Lens use Snap’s own AI model?

Snap hasn’t confirmed the exact model but says it combines in-house AI with industry-leading systems for better performance.

5. Will more AI-powered features be added?

Yes. Snap has been steadily investing in AI and AR tools, so users can expect more generative features for images, video, and AR experiences in the future.