Snapchat announced the introduction of “AI Sponsored Snaps,” enabling users to interact with brands’ AI agents within the app’s main Chat tab. Previously, users couldn’t engage with these ads, but now they can ask questions and receive recommendations.
Despite skepticism regarding AI-sponsored ads, Snapchat claims its community is receptive to AI, noting that over half a billion users have interacted with its AI chatbot since its 2023 launch.
Ajit Mohan, Snap’s Chief Business Officer, emphasized in a blog post that conversation is becoming crucial for advertising. AI is transforming chat into a space for product discovery and decision-making in real time. The goal is to create ad formats that fit naturally into user conversations.
The AI Sponsored Snaps provide brands access to nearly one billion monthly active Snapchat users, enabling engagement and driving purchases through personalized AI interactions. Snapchat states that the format builds on Sponsored Snaps’ success, which already results in 22% more conversions at nearly 20% lower cost per action.
With 85% of users actively engaging in the Chat feed and over 950 billion chats sent in Q1 2026, the new format aims to capitalize on Snapchat’s active user base. Additionally, a significant portion of teen users communicate daily via the platform.