Snap Inc. announced on Mar. 25 the launch of AI Clips in Lens Studio, a new feature that uses artificial intelligence to turn a single photo into a five-second video. The tool is available exclusively to Snapchat Lens+ subscribers.
AI Clips aim to make AI-generated video more accessible and personal by allowing users to quickly create shareable content from their own photos. According to Snap Inc., this marks the first time developers can build and publish photo-to-video AI directly on Snapchat using the GenAI Suite in Lens Studio.
The company describes AI Clips as Snapchat Lenses that use a closed-prompt system, transforming images from either a user’s Snap or Camera Roll into short videos. “What makes AI Clips stand out in the broader AI video landscape is what they don’t try to be. They aren’t open-ended, text-to-video tools or experimental demos. They are closed-prompt AI experiences designed for scale, creativity, and repeat engagement,” Snap Inc. said.
Snap Inc. emphasized that there are currently no other products on the market combining closed-prompt AI video generation with direct photo input, real distribution channels, and monetization opportunities for creators.
The company said that with many Lens+ subscribers seeking premium and immersive experiences, developers have an opportunity to reach an engaged audience through well-crafted ideas using this new format. For those enrolled in Lens+ Payouts, Snap Inc. noted that this feature allows them to earn revenue directly from their creative work.
