From time machine to cartoonish 3D style, Snapchat has created a series of viral augmented reality lenses as consistently as Beyoncé releases hits.
The latest example is Smile, an AR Lens that Snap says uses a machine learning algorithm to convert a person’s likeness into a specified emotion. To date, around 190 million Snapchat users have interacted with the camera effect, with over 1 billion views.
Follow along to see how to flip a frown with Snapchat’s augmented reality magic.
Install or update Snapchat
You will need the Snapchat app to participate. If this is your first time, please install the app from the respective app store and then follow the on-screen instructions to set up your account. Otherwise, update the app if it’s available and then open it.
Scan Snapcode
When you open Snapchat, you are taken to the default camera/design.
If you’re reading this on your desktop, scan the code below by pointing your camera at the Snapcode and long-press anywhere in the camera’s field of view.
If you’re reading this on your mobile device, use this Smile link to open Lens directly in the Snapchat app.
Either method will take you to a popup. Click the “Unlock for 48 hours”button to continue.
Smile for the camera
You now have Smile Lens activated in your camera. Whether you’re smiling or not, the lens will put a smile on your face through the front camera. You can also switch to the rear camera to apply the effect to other people nearby, or to images of other people in photos or videos.
Add some happiness to an existing photo
You will also notice a button to the right of the camera. Tap it to access photos in your camera roll that have face recognition. Select an image and Smile Lens will add a smile to the face in the image.