What is the TikTok anime filter and how does it work?
The viral anime filter you’ve seen on TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter is called Anime Style and actually comes from Snapchat. The filter was released earlier this week and has since blown up online.
But, how does it work? Anime Style uses AI technology and face mapping to create a unique anime face adapting to your skin tone, face shape and hair colour. Your eye shape and facial expressions can also change the face the filter gives you, going from a Shounen anime protagonist to his 10,000 year old teacher in seconds.
This also, apparently, includes facial hair.
How do I get the TikTok anime filter?
So, uh, here’s the thing. Technically, you can’t actually get the anime filter on TikTok. You have to download the filter on Snapchat and record a video in the app and then upload it to TikTok. It’s a bit annoying and cumbersome, especially if you’re one of the few who have moved on from Snapchat (y’know, like us) or don’t remember your log-in.
Anyway, here’s what you have to do:
- First, open Snapchat and create an account if you haven’t already.
- In the Filters search bar, search ‘Anime Style.’ If you can’t find it, click this link.
- Press ‘Unlock for 48 hours.’
- Record, take pics, etc.
- Save them to your Camera Roll and then upload them to TikTok, Instagram, Twitter and more.
As of right now, there’s sadly no plan for the filter to appear on TikTok. But, given just how it’s the biggest thing on all of our FYPs right now—along with those adorable ghost photoshoots—then we expect to see it soon.
