Snapchat is rolling out a new feature for Snapchat+ subscribers – AI Bitmoji pets. As reported by SocialMediaToday and ZD Net, the feature uses generative AI to create a customized Bitmoji pet based on a real or imaginary pet.
AI Bitmoji pet feature was revealed in screenshots posted by Twitter user Jonah Manzano. The screenshots show the ability to create a pet and have it appear next to you on your Snapchat map. This could serve as a virtual companion when using the app.
Details on how exactly Snapchat’s AI will generate the pets have not been confirmed. However, the use of AI pets aligns with the growing trend of integrating generative AI into apps and services to create customized, interactive experiences.
While an AI pet may not provide immense practical value, it taps into the human desire for connection and personalized content. For Snapchat, it offers another way to leverage AI to enhance its platform. The rollout to paying Snapchat+ subscribers also incentivizes upgrading from the free version.
It remains to be seen if these AI Bitmoji pets will be a breakout hit. But they represent Snapchat’s continual efforts to experiment with new features, especially those powered by emerging technology like generative AI.