Snap is testing a new way to search for products on Amazon.com through its Snapchat app’s camera, allowing users to shop directly using the messaging app.
The visual search function will allow Snapchat users to point its camera at an item or barcode and buy it from Amazon.
‘When the item or barcode is recognized, an Amazon card will appear on-screen, surfacing a link for that product or similar ones available on Amazon,’ the company said.
The visual search function will allow Snapchat users to point its camera at an item or barcode and buy it from Amazon
Snap said it would be rolling out the feature to its users ‘slowly’ as it tests the service.
‘Beginning this week, we’re testing a new way to search for products on Amazon right from the Snapchat camera,’ the firm said.
‘We’ll be rolling it out slowly, but we wanted to announce it to everyone at the same time.
Snap said the feature is ‘super easy’ to use.
‘Simply point your Snapchat camera at a physical product or barcode, and press and hold on the camera screen to get started.
‘When the item or barcode is recognized, an Amazon card will appear on-screen, surfacing a link for that product or similar ones available on Amazon.
‘Tap your selection to visit the Amazon App (if you have it installed on your phone) or Amazon.com, where you can complete your purchase or keep browsing.’
It comes after Snapchat launched two new versions of Spectacles that feature a sleeker and more fashionable design.
The social media giant last week unveiled the new Veronica and Nico styles of its second-generation Spectacles.
Unlike previous versions, the new style only come in black. Snapchat has also swapped out the traditional hard, yellow charging case for a soft, black case
They have all the upgraded features of Spectacles 2, which were released in April, but include polarized lenses and a $200 price tag.
The original Spectacles sold for $130, while the second-generation Spectacles cost $150.
This time around, Snapchat is focusing on style with its Nico and Veronica versions of Spectacles.
Nico features square, modern lenses, while Veronica has oversized lenses to evoke a more glamorous feel.
The new Spectacles styles can be purchased starting Wednesday in the US, Canada and some European countries, including the UK, France, Germany and Italy.
They’ll also go on sale in Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus later this year, the company said.
‘Both designs come in black-on-black with polarized lenses, effortlessly combining form and function to create our most fashionable hands-free camera,’ the firm said in a statement.