Snapchat’s feature that inserts your face into short video clips is called Cameos. Snapchat introduced Cameos in December 2019 as a way to make users the stars of short, looping videos shared in Chat.
To use Cameos, a person takes a selfie that Snapchat places into selected video scenes. The feature can create humorous reactions, greetings, or expressive messages, and some Cameos allow customized captions. Snapchat also supported two-person Cameos when both participants had set up their selfies.
Cameos are often confused with Lenses, but the tools work differently. Lenses apply real-time augmented-reality effects through the camera, while Cameos place a user’s face into pre-made animated clips. Bitmoji are personalized cartoon avatars and do not use the user’s photographic face in the same way.
The feature was developed after Snap acquired AI Factory, a computer-vision startup associated with Cameos technology. Snapchat initially launched the feature with more than 150 videos, with additional scenes added over time.