Messenger’s new AR features look like fun… for those who own a major clothing label

Facebook

• Facebook has announced two AR initiatives for Messenger and Instagram.
• The social network will allow brands to use AR effects on Messenger, such as "trying on" new products.
• Instagram will receive AR Studio, which allows people to create their own AR effects and filters.

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Facebook is taking further steps into the world of augmented reality (AR), bringing the technology to Messenger, and launching an AR Studio platform for Instagram.

The company used its F8 developer conference to announce the initiatives, starting with AR technology in Messenger. This will allow brands to use AR camera effects on the messaging platform, enabling users to "try on" merchandise and walk through new products, Facebook outlined in a recent post.

messenger.fb.com

Users can also save and share the AR images they discover with friends. The network will initially partner with Nike, Asus, Kia, and Sephora for the launch of the initiative.

The feature, which is currently in closed beta, appears to be more of an e-commerce play rather than a way to interact with friends. Its official launch date is yet to be revealed.

Want more Snapchat-style masks to send to your buddies? That's what AR Studio is for. This platform lets users create new face masks and AR "world effects." It was first announced at F8 2017, but Facebook is now bringing it to Instagram. The company also gave a few examples of its uses on the multimedia-focused network, such as turning every video into an "NBA dunkcam" or adding a "cloud of hearts and Pomeranians" to a photo or video.

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To take advantage of this, you'll want to tap try it on when you see a new effect in Stories from someone you follow. Instagram says the effect will then be saved to your tray for future use on the network. The company promises that more effects are "coming soon" from the likes of Ariana Grande, Buzzfeed, and Vogue.

For more from F8 this week, take a look at our coverage on WhatsApp's Status figures, the Oculus Go launch date (hint: it's available now), a Facebook dating service, and video chat for Instagram.

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