Snapchat brings AR lenses to desktop with a Chrome Extension

In a move to expand the reach of its popular augmented reality (AR) features, Snap has launched a public preview "Snapchat Camera for Chrome" on the Chrome Web Store. This browser extension allows users to apply playful and creative AR filters directly to their webcam feed during video calls, livestreams, and recordings.

The AR lenses were previously available through a discontinued desktop app by Snap. However, the Chrome extension offers greater flexibility. Users can now access Snap's vast library of AR Lenses, including the latest trends and festive themes, regardless of the video conferencing platform they use (as long as it's accessed through Chrome). The extension also allows users to add a personal touch by incorporating custom AR filters they've designed themselves.

To use the Snapchat Camera for Chrome, users will have to install the Snapchat Camera extension from the Chrome Web Store. Then, users need to log in to their Snapchat account and choose ‘Snapchat Camera’ as their camera for any app.

Snap AR Lens has been a core feature of the Snapchat app since 2017, known for adding fun and interactive overlays to videos and photos. Now, the new extension aims to bring this same playful experience to video calls with friends, family, or colleagues.

Since its inception, Snap AR Lens has provided users with a constantly evolving library of creative filters. The company has also explored ways to expand this experience beyond the smartphone, offering the "Snapchat Spectacles" wearable that incorporates AR Lens effects directly into the user's view.

Following the discontinuation of its desktop camera app, Snap's "Snapchat Camera for Chrome" marks a return to delivering its popular AR features on desktops.