Snap Launches Snap Camera Extension for Chrome

The new Snap Camera extension for Chrome is a browser extension that allows users to apply Snap AR Lenses to their PC camera. This extension brings the creativity of Snap AR Lenses directly to your webcam, enabling you to use selected Snap Lenses during professional meetings, catching up with friends, or live streaming.

To use the Snapchat Camera for Chrome extension, follow these steps:

1. Install the extension: Add the Snapchat Camera extension to your Chrome browser.
2. Activate the extension: Open the extension and select the Snap Lenses you want to use.
3. Apply Lenses: Use the selected Snap Lenses during your video calls or live streams via your PC camera.

This will allow you to virtually dress up as various characters like a frog, a potato, or an axolotl, adding a fun element to your video interactions.

Snap shut down the separate Snap Camera app in January last year as part of broader cost-cutting measures. This decision removed the option for users to appear in their Zoom calls with fun AR filters like a potato.

Using Snap AR Lenses in video calls offers several benefits:

• Creativity: Elevate your webcam experience by adding creative and fun elements to your video calls.
• Engagement: Make professional meetings, catching up with friends, or live streaming more engaging and entertaining.
• Customization: Integrate Lenses that you've designed and published, creating a unique look for your video interactions.

However, it's important to consider the tone of each specific meeting before using these fun elements.

To create your own Snap Lenses for the Snapchat Camera for Chrome extension, you need to use Snap’s Lens Studio. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

1. Download Snap’s Lens Studio: Install the Lens Studio software on your computer.
2. Learn the basics: Take some time to learn how to build a lens using the tools and tutorials provided by Snap.
3. Design your Lens: Use the software to design and customize your own Snap Lens.
4. Publish your Lens: Once your Lens is ready, publish it so that it can be integrated and used with the Snapchat Camera for Chrome extension.

Creating custom Lenses requires some time and patience, but it offers a fun way to personalize your video calls.