Image: Snap
Remember 2020? Video calls became our lifeline, and some companies gambled on AR filters to fight the monotony. While they might have sparked a few smiles, let's be honest—they weren't exactly a pandemic panacea. Still, many stuck around. Except for Snap. They had a desktop app with AR filters, but alas, it met its demise last year. Fear not, lens lovers! Snap's bringing the fun back with a Chrome extension.
Snapchat Camera for Chrome lets you unleash AR lenses directly on your webcam. Video calls, streams, recordings—you name it, they've got you covered. Unlike the departed desktop app, you'll need your Snapchat login for this one. But hey, the good news is you can even use your custom lenses!
This Chrome integration offers more flexibility, but desktop filters haven't completely vanished. Microsoft Teams jumped on the bandwagon last year.
AR lenses are Snapchat's signature. They were a key differentiator, alongside the disappearing messages we all know and love. So, it's no surprise Snap wants to expand its reach. While a shooting star effect might be fun on Discord with friends, a serious conference call is probably not the place for a virtual frog head.