Microsoft has entered a partnership with Snap to provide augmented reality (AR) capabilities to Skype’s mobile app. In the typical Microsoft way of bringing features that are already past their trend, integrating Snap’s Camera Kit SDK gains new tools and AR lenses aimed at enriching user conversations.
AR Enhancements for Better Communication
Leveraging Snap’s Camera Kit SDK, Skype introduces features such as text overlays on photos and videos, a variety of filters, and masks. These additions are designed to make interactions with friends and family more engaging. Snap’s AR technology, already featured in Microsoft products like Teams, SwiftKey, and Flip, is now available on Skype.
The update to Skype includes a revamped camera equipped with numerous AR lenses from Snap. This allows users to add effects ranging from glittery beards to disco glasses and raining hearts, bringing a playful and dynamic element to their chats.
Using Skype’s New AR Features
To access the AR lenses, users need to update their Skype app to the latest version. After the update, they can open the camera by tapping the icon in the bottom-right corner, then selecting the smiling face button to choose lenses. Users can then capture photos or videos, enhance them with text and filters, and share them with contacts.
These new AR capabilities are available on both Android and iOS platforms. Detailed usage instructions can be found in the official announcement. Skype can be downloaded from the Google Play Store for Android and the App Store for iOS.
Skype’s updated camera aims to make it easier for users to create and share photos or videos directly within the app. Users can review and modify their recordings before sending them. If the result is unsatisfactory, they can start over, ensuring they get their desired outcome.