Snap has launched Ray Tracing Technology in Lens Studio for global developers. This technology enables accurate reflections of light and shine on AR objects, leading to more realistic AR renderings.
By simulating the physical behavior of light through an algorithm that traces a beam’s path, Ray tracing enables virtual light rays to reflect off digital objects, creating realistic reflections. This feature can enhance the quality of Lenses that feature reflective surfaces, such as metals, stones, and glass objects, by accurately bouncing and reflecting light.
Snap AR Ray Tracing Technology
Lens Studio now offers Ray Tracing technology to developers worldwide, which enhances the realism of augmented reality experiences through accurate reflection of light on digital objects. With this feature, Lenses featuring AR diamond jewelry, clothing, and more can now achieve an ultra-realistic quality. Last year, Snapchat added cricket AR lens in partnership with Spotify for IPL 2022.
Snap partners Tiffany & Co
Tiffany & Co is the pioneer brand to use Ray Tracing on Snapchat with their latest Tiffany Lock Lens, allowing users to try-on Tiffany Lock bracelets through AR and buy them within the app. This feature is the first of its kind to bring ray tracing technology, typically used in offline applications like console games, to mobile devices with such realism.
Snapchat revealed during Lens Fest 2022, which marks five years of the Snap AR Community, that over 300,000 creators, developers, and teams worldwide have developed more than 3 million AR Lenses. The platform’s daily use by hundreds of millions of people in AR has allowed AR developers to establish strong businesses. In preparation for last year’s holiday shopping season, Snapchat collaborated with H&M, a leading fashion retailer, to launch a digital collection powered by the Snap Camera.
Snapchat has partnered with Amazon for a Virtual Try-On shopping experience utilizing augmented reality. The partnership enables Snapchat users to virtually try on popular brand eyewear styles. While the initial focus of the partnership is on eyewear, the plan is to expand into other categories in the coming months.
Availability
The Tiffany Lock Lens on Snapchat enables users to try on Tiffany Lock bracelets using AR and make purchases without leaving the app. This Lens is available worldwide to Snapchat users on both iOS and Android.
Announcing the feature, Snapchat, said
Snapchatters love using augmented reality to try on products from beloved fashion brands, making the shopping experience personal, accessible, and fun. Today, we’re excited to announce Ray Tracing which is now available in Lens Studio to developers around the world.