In today’s fast-paced digital world, video calls have become a staple for staying connected with friends, family, and colleagues. Adding a touch of fun and creativity can transform ordinary conversations into memorable experiences. Viber, the popular messaging and calling app owned by Rakuten, has integrated augmented reality (AR) filters—also known as Viber Lenses—to let users enhance their video calls with playful effects, masks, beautification tools, and immersive overlays. Whether you’re looking to add silly animal ears during a casual chat or apply subtle makeup enhancements for a professional video call, Viber’s AR features make it easy and entertaining.
This comprehensive 2026 guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to use Viber’s augmented reality filters in calls, including step-by-step instructions, tips for the best results, real-world applications, advantages over standard video calls, common troubleshooting issues, and the latest trends in AR communication. By the end, you’ll be ready to elevate your Viber experience and make every call more engaging.
What Are Viber’s Augmented Reality Filters?
Viber’s AR filters, powered by a long-standing partnership with Snap Inc. (the company behind Snapchat), bring Snapchat-style Lenses directly into the app. Introduced around 2021 and continuously updated, these Viber Lenses include:
- Instant AR Lenses: Overlay 3D elements on your surroundings or face, like virtual objects or environments.
- Expressive Masks: Face-tracking effects such as animal ears, funny distortions, or character overlays that move with your expressions.
- Beautification Features: Subtle enhancements like smoother skin, lipstick, blush, eye makeup, or hair color changes.
- Attention-Grabbing Filters: Creative layers that add sparkle, colors, or thematic effects to your video feed.
Unlike basic filters in some apps, Viber’s AR tools are designed for real-time use in video calls, messages, photos, and videos. In 2026, with ongoing updates, the library has expanded significantly, offering seasonal, branded, and user-created options for more variety.
These features are available on both mobile (iOS and Android) and desktop versions, though the experience is smoothest on smartphones due to better camera integration.
Why Use AR Filters in Viber Calls? Benefits and Advantages
Incorporating AR filters isn’t just about fun—it’s about making communication more expressive and personal. Here are some key advantages:
- Boost Engagement: Fun effects keep conversations lively, especially in group calls or with kids.
- Express Emotions Creatively: Masks and overlays convey mood without words—perfect for lighthearted chats.
- Enhance Appearance Confidently: Beautification tools help users feel more polished during important calls.
- Stand Out in Groups: In family or friend groups, AR adds a playful layer that standard video lacks.
- Privacy and Control: Filters apply only to your feed; recipients see them without needing the same app version.
Compared to competitors like Zoom or WhatsApp, Viber’s native integration (no third-party apps required for basic use) ensures seamless performance and lower latency. Users report higher satisfaction in casual and social scenarios thanks to these creative tools.
For more on enhancing your Viber experience, check out our guide on how to set up Viber as default SMS app for unified messaging.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply AR Filters in Viber Video Calls
Follow these instructions for the latest 2026 Viber app version (ensure your app is updated via the App Store or Google Play).
On Mobile (iOS/Android)
- Open Viber and Start a Call Launch the Viber app and go to the Chats tab. Select a contact or group, then tap the phone icon to start a voice call or the video camera icon for a video call. Wait for the recipient to join.
- Access the Camera Effects Once the video call connects, look for the effects icon on your screen—usually a sparkling face or camera symbol at the bottom or side toolbar (it may appear as a “Smiley” or “Lens” button).
- Browse and Select a Lens Tap the effects icon to open the Lens carousel (powered by Snap). Scroll horizontally to preview available AR filters. Categories often include “Funny,” “Beauty,” “World Lenses,” and seasonal specials. Tap one to apply it instantly—your preview will update in real-time.
- Customize and Apply Some Lenses allow tweaks (e.g., intensity sliders for beauty effects). Smile, blink, or move your head to test tracking accuracy. The filter follows your face naturally.
- During the Call The AR effect applies live to what others see. You can switch filters mid-call or turn them off by tapping the effects icon again and selecting “None” or the off button.
- End and Save (Optional) Filters don’t record unless you choose to capture the call (if enabled). For snapshots, use the in-call screenshot or record feature.
On Desktop (Windows/Mac)
Desktop support for AR Lenses is more limited but works via the integrated camera:
- Start a video call from the desktop app.
- Click the effects/camera icon in the call interface.
- Select from available Lenses (fewer than mobile, but core beauty and fun ones are there).
- Apply and enjoy—the effect streams to participants.
Pro Tip: If native filters feel limited, advanced users pair Viber with virtual camera software like Snap Camera (for Snap Lenses) or Filteronme for extra effects in calls.
For related fun features, explore Viber emoji reactions 2026 guide: how to react in groups & unlock hidden meanings.
Real-World Applications and User Scenarios
- Family Gatherings: Grandparents love seeing grandkids with cute animal masks during holiday calls.
- Dating or Flirting: Beauty filters add confidence; playful masks break the ice.
- Work/Professional Calls: Subtle beautification for better lighting or appearance without overdoing it.
- Content Creation: Record short AR-enhanced clips for sharing on social media.
- Events & Celebrations: Themed Lenses (e.g., birthday hats or fireworks) make virtual parties festive.
Many users combine these with Viber’s group video calls (up to 50 participants in 2026) for interactive fun.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
- Filters Not Appearing? Update Viber, check internet connection, or restart the app. Some regions have delayed rollouts.
- Poor Tracking? Ensure good lighting and face centered in frame. Clean your camera lens.
- No Effects Icon? It may only show after the call connects or if the recipient supports it.
- Lag or Crash? Close background apps; AR is resource-intensive on older devices.
- Desktop Issues? Use the mobile app for full Lens access.
If filters vanish, reinstall or check Viber’s help center.
Latest Trends in AR for Video Calls (2026)
In 2026, AR in messaging apps is evolving rapidly:
- More AI-driven personalization (filters adapting to mood or voice).
- Branded Lenses from creators and companies for marketing.
- Integration with metaverse elements for immersive calls.
- Privacy-focused options (local processing to reduce data sharing).
Viber continues expanding its Lens library quarterly, with community contributions growing.
For migrating chats while exploring new features, see our complete guide on how to import WhatsApp chats into Viber.
Make Your Viber Calls Unforgettable
Mastering how to use Viber’s augmented reality filters in calls opens up a world of creative expression, turning routine video chats into delightful interactions. With easy access via the effects carousel, real-time application, and a growing selection of Lenses, Viber stands out for fun-focused communication. Start experimenting today—your next call could be the most entertaining one yet!
Whether for laughs, confidence boosts, or simply adding flair, these AR tools enhance connection in meaningful ways. Update your app, dive into the Lenses, and enjoy the augmented fun.