Snapchat implements additional review layers for Lenses after plagiarism accusations
Snapchat will pay closer attention to the designs of its Lenses after creatives accused the messaging app’s staff of copying their designs.
Snapchat implements additional review layers for lenses after plagiarism accusations
The designs in question were used by the app’s users to pretend as if their faces had been painted or are wearing a mask. Known as a ‘lens’, the feature has emerged as one of Snapchat’s most popular, though some have complained the designs on show are not wholly original.
Make-up artist Argenis Pinal claimed that a zombie pattern he shared online was copied by the app, and posted a comparison of the two. He told pop culture site The Ringer: “I came across it and I was like; ‘Um, this exactly the same drawing I did of myself a couple of months ago’. And it was weird, because I just reported a picture of it a week ago on Instagram.
Another artist, Alexander Khokhlov complained in May that a filter on the app closely resembled a design that had been featured in magazines.
Snapchat has moved to add additional layers of review to curb such instances and is dealing with those internally involved with the designs that have been singled out.
In a statement it said: “The creative process sometimes involves inspiration, but it should never result in copying. We have already implemented additional layers of review for all designs. Copying other artists isn’t something we will tolerate, and we’re taking appropriate action internally with those involved.”