Snapchat Launches New AI Lens to Create Images from Text Prompts

Snapchat has unveiled its latest innovation in generative AI — the “Imagine Lens”, an advanced tool that lets users create, edit, and reimagine Snaps using simple text prompts. The feature, which is available exclusively to Snapchat+ Platinum ($15.99/month) and Lens+ ($8.99/month) subscribers, brings open-prompt image generation directly into the app for the first time.

With Imagine Lens, Snapchat users can type custom prompts such as “create an image of a grumpy cat” or “turn me into an alien”, instantly generating creative AI-powered visuals. The Lens also offers pre-loaded prompts like “make me into a funny caricature”, “turn me into a four-panel comic where something unexpected but heroic happens”, or “make this person skydive.”

Once generated, images can be shared with friends, posted to Stories, or exported outside Snapchat. Unlike Snapchat’s earlier AI-powered filters, Imagine Lens is its first open-prompt text-to-image generator, giving users full creative freedom.

Snapchat says users can always tap the caption bar to edit their prompts and experiment with new ideas.

This launch follows Snap’s broader push into AI. Earlier this year, the company introduced its own AI text-to-image research model for mobile devices, powering select features in the app. While Snap hasn’t confirmed if this same model powers Imagine Lens, it noted that its lenses use a mix of in-house and industry-leading AI models.

Users can find Imagine Lens at the front of the Lens Carousel or under the Exclusive category within Snapchat.

As Snap continues to expand its AR and AI ecosystem, this launch highlights the company’s ambition to blend augmented reality with generative AI, competing with tech giants investing heavily in creative AI tools.