Facebook’s Spark AR augmented reality platform for creators is out of closed beta on Instagram and available for use by all creators on the photo- and video-sharing network.
The social network first revealed the move at its F8 developers conference in April, also introducing a new version of the platform at the time that supports Windows and Mac.
Facebook introduced what was then called its Camera Effects Platform at F8 in April 2017, and the platform was renamed Spark AR last October, when the Instagram beta was first disclosed and Spark AR Studio for Mac OS was released.
The company said over 1 billion people have used AR effects and filters powered by Spark AR on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger and its Portal video-calling device.
The social network also added an Effect Gallery to Spark AR, featuring AR effects from up-and-coming artists and making it easier for people to discover unique effects. It can be accessed via “browse effects” on the Instagram camera.
Product manager Matthew Roberts wrote in a blog post, “Instagram Stories let you express yourself in the moment and connect with friends, and AR adds rich, interactive and dynamic layers to those experiences. AR lets artists, creators and designers make custom effects to share with their communities and enable more vibrant forms of digital expression—and we’re happy to help bring the Spark AR community’s creative visions to life.”
