Snapchat has introduced a new feature called Dreams, which adds a unique twist to generative AI selfies. While one-off apps like Lensa have already popularized this concept, Dreams offer users a new way to create and share AI-generated photos. This feature is located in the Memories section of Snapchat’s camera roll.
To use Dreams, users need to upload a series of real-life selfies within the app. Once uploaded, Snapchat presents users with a selection of eight-photo packs with different themes, such as doppelgangers or back-to-school. The first pack is free, and additional packs can be purchased for $1 as an in-app purchase.
For now, Dreams is only available to Snapchat users in Australia and New Zealand, but access will gradually open up to the rest of the world over the coming weeks.
Snap’s VP of Product, Jack Brody, described Dreams as a “playful, fun, sometimes a little bit silly, and a little bit weird” feature that aligns with Snapchat’s approach to creating value for its community. The company aims to offer unique and entertaining experiences through its innovative features, and Dreams is a perfect example of that.
During early access to Dreams, some users found that the AI-generated photos didn’t resemble them accurately. However, there were a few funny ones that could be shared as a joke. It’s worth noting that Snap plans to introduce more AI options in the future, allowing users to create their own Dreams with custom prompts.
Snapchat is known for its use of AI technology, such as its My AI chatbot powered by OpenAI’s ChatGPT. However, Dreams, unlike My AI, is based on open-source technology, and each art style is created by Snap employees. The company is also planning to enable users to add their friends to their Dreams, but users must agree to this feature even before using Dreams in single-player mode.
While Dreams is currently limited to user-generated content, the terms of service indicate that Sponsored Dreams are on the horizon. This means that companies like Disney or Pepsi may soon collaborate with Snapchat to create branded Dreams packs.
Although Snapchat may not be as talked about in pop culture as other social networks, it continues to experience significant user growth. In the last quarter, Snapchat reported 397 million daily users, and content from Memories is shared between users 280 million times per day. Dreams is expected to be a hugely popular feature, introducing millions of people to the generative AI experience for the first time.
In conclusion, Dreams is Snapchat’s innovative take on generative AI selfies. Through this feature, users can create and share unique AI-generated photos with different themes. While Dreams currently offers pre-selected packs, Snap plans to expand its AI options in the future. With the influx of users on Snapchat, Dreams is set to become a popular and entertaining feature.
