Snapchat this Independence Day has something special for its Indian users. The social media platform has brought its augmented reality (AR) feature ‘Landmarker’ to the India Gate in New Delhi. This feature allows Snapchat users, also known as Snapchatters, to place augmented reality experiences on top of the historic landmark. In addition to bringing Landmarker to India Gate, Snapchat has introduced exclusive image filters it calls “Lenses” to let its users in the country celebrate the 75th Independence Day virtually by taking custom photos. The app has also created a hashtag #MeraBharatMahan to showcase various creations from Indian users.
To experience Landmarker, Snapchat users approaching India Gate will be warned to aim their camera at the landmark. This adds an AR layer to embellish India Gate with the tricolor.
Snapchat initially offered Landmarker for five locations worldwide, though parent company Snap expanded support for the feature to India in August 2019 by bringing it to Gateway of India in Mumbai and Taj Mahal in Agra. Snap also joined Spotify shortly after the launch of Landmarker in India to showcase a Diwali-themed AR lens for Gateway of India.
In addition to expanding the Landmarker feature, Snapchat has released new AR lenses on the occasion of Independence Day. Users can also use the #MeraBharatMahan hashtag when sharing their short videos on the app for a chance to showcase their creations on the Spotlight feed.
“Snapchat’s strategy remains focused on deepening the culturally and locally relevant experience for Indian users through product development, creative tools, community engagement and partnerships,” said Durgesh Kaushik, Head of Market Development, India at Snap, in a statement. a prepared statement.
According to data shared with Gadgets 360, Snapchat’s daily user base in India has grown 100 percent year-on-year over the past five quarters. Snap also claimed its app grew more than 150 percent in daily active users in the past year. However, it did not provide an estimated number of users on Snapchat from India.
