# AR Car-Customizing Lenses BMW Lets Consumers Customize the X2 with Snapchat's Augmented Trial Lens By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2017-11-24 | Autos Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snapchats-augmented-trial-lens References: [campaignlive](https://www.campaignlive.co.uk/article/bmw-uses-snapchats-augmented-trial-lens-x2/1450943) [BMW](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/i-vision-dee) is the first brand to try out [Snapchat's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/augmented-reality-1) augmented trial lens, leveraging the technology to help consumers see some of the customization options available for the youthful [X2](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/scorpion-x2) model. It is becoming more common for automotive companies to adopt virtual and augmented reality technology to help potential new car owners to see the changes that can be made to a vehicle—but this new Snapchat-integrated feature doesn't require visiting a dealership or downloading a specialized app for viewing. This Millennial-targeted 'SnapAd' is appearing for Snapchat users across North America, the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain, but the experience may also be unlocked by scanning a Snapcode. Snapchat's Augmented Trial Lens, which is also being touted as the "try-before-you-buy" augmented reality filter. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.3/10 - Popularity: 15% | Activity: 45% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Autos](https://www.trendhunter.com/autos) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Virtual Reality Car Customization:** Opportunity for car manufacturers to leverage virtual reality technology to allow consumers to customize and visualize their vehicles before purchasing. - **Augmented Reality Advertising:** Brands can utilize augmented reality technology, like Snapchat's augmented trial lens, to engage with consumers in a unique and immersive way. - **Millennial-targeted Marketing:** Brands can focus on developing marketing campaigns and features that specifically appeal to the Millennial demographic, leveraging platforms like Snapchat. ### Where This Applies - **Automotive:** Automotive industry can explore the use of augmented and virtual reality technology to enhance the car browsing and customization experience for potential customers. - **Advertising:** Advertising industry can leverage augmented reality platforms to create engaging and interactive advertisements that capture the attention of consumers. - **Technology:** Technology industry can further develop augmented and virtual reality tools and platforms for brands to create innovative and memorable experiences for their customers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [AR Garment Try-Ons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/augmented-reality-1.md) - [Gen-Z-Focused AR Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tryon-haul-lens.md) - [AR-Based Eyewear Try-Ons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/amazon-fashion-1.md) - [Shoppable AR Villages](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snapchat-winter-village.md) - [AR-Powered Try-On Rooms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snapchat-7.md) - [AR-Powered Shopping Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dress-up.md) - [Car-Free AR Lenses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/feels-like-home-campaign.md) - [AR Halloween Costume Try-Ons](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/disguise-1.md) - [AR-Powered Vending Machines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snapchat-and-loreal.md)