Snap is taking its augmented reality (AR) offerings to the next level with the launch of Lens+, a new paid add-on for Snapchat+ subscribers. The Snapchat Lens+ subscription unlocks access to exclusive AR Lenses and tools designed to elevate creativity, interactivity, and user experience.
This new premium feature adds to Snap’s growing list of monetized services, giving users more ways to customize their in-app activities and expanding the creative economy for AR developers on the platform.
What Is Snapchat Lens+?
Lens+ is an upgrade to the existing Snapchat+ subscription, offering users exclusive access to a collection of advanced AR Lenses and interactive experiences.
Priced at $8.99/month, Lens+ includes the core Snapchat+ features and adds a growing catalog of premium Lenses available only to paying users.
According to Snap:
“In addition to all of the value from our Snapchat+ subscription, Lens+ provides access to hundreds of Lenses and AR experiences that let you play, create, and share Snaps with friends in whole new ways.”
What’s Included in Lens+?
At launch, Lens+ offers access to:
- Exclusive AI video Lenses
- New Bitmoji Game Lenses
- Premium AR experiences created by Snap and select AR creators
Snapchat plans to release new AR tools weekly, continually expanding the offering to keep users engaged and entertained. The integration of AI-generated effects and interactive filters is likely to be a major draw for users looking for next-gen creative tools.
A Boost for Snap’s AR Creator Community
While Lens+ is initially focused on Snap-curated and partner-created content, the longer-term vision could open monetization opportunities for Snap’s 400,000+ AR creators.
With tools like Lens Studio, Snap has already built one of the most robust AR development ecosystems in the industry. The introduction of a premium tier tied to exclusive content offers a pathway to help creators eventually earn from their AR innovations.
Although Snap hasn’t announced a revenue-share model just yet, Lens+ could evolve into a marketplace-like experience where creators contribute to the AR catalog and benefit financially.
Growing Success of Snapchat+
Snapchat+ has already proven to be a success for the company, amassing over 15 million subscribers since launch. The addition of Lens+ builds on this momentum by giving Snap a new revenue stream and reinforcing its AR leadership.
With a largely affluent and engaged user base, Snapchat is in a strong position to upsell premium features like Lens+, particularly as AR continues to gain mainstream popularity in social and eCommerce contexts.
How to Subscribe to Lens+
Users can subscribe to Lens+ directly within the Snapchat app:
- Tap your Bitmoji on your profile screen
- Select the Snapchat+ option
- Choose Lens+ to unlock the new AR features
Lens+ is available as an upgrade to Snapchat+ and cannot be purchased as a standalone feature.
Final Thoughts
Snap’s rollout of the Snapchat Lens+ subscription is a strategic move to deepen user engagement while driving recurring revenue. By combining its AR innovation with premium, paywalled content, Snap is tapping into a market of users willing to pay for next-level features and enhanced creativity.
As new AI-powered effects and AR experiences roll out weekly, Lens+ could become a must-have for creators, influencers, and trend-savvy users looking to stay ahead in the Snap ecosystem.
