An analysis of Snap Inc.’s Android app has revealed code for an unreleased object recognition feature that could give the company a potentially significant new revenue source.

The capability was detailed today in a TechCrunch report that cited app researcher Ishan Agarwal. Agarwal has made a name for himself by uncovering features on Instagram’s development roadmap prior to their release, including the video chat tool that the Facebook subsidiary Inc. launched in May.

Snapchat’s code indicates that the planned object recognition feature will be called “Camera Search.” According to internal notes from the company’s developers, the capability will let users scan an object or a barcode with their mobile camera to bring up relevant product listings from Amazon.com Inc.

Some clues are also available as to the specific options the feature will provide. The Android app’s code indicates that users will have the ability to check the reviews written about suggested products, as well as copy the link for a listing and send items to contacts.

Snap’s objective with Camera Search is presumably to drive e-commerce purchases through its app. Such a referral system could have the potential to drive a lot of new revenue for the company given that it had 191 million active daily users as of May. Snap has struggled to monetize its installed base so far,  reporting a loss of $385.8 million last quarter.

It’s unclear if Snap will partner with Amazon for Camera Search or intends to pursue the project alone. Theoretically, the company could add integrations with other e-commerce marketplaces as well to increase the number of products and shopping options available for users.

It wouldn’t be the first time that Snap has turned to an external service to provide value-added features. In 2016, Snap rolled out an integration with Apple Inc.’s Shazam music recognition service to help users find the names of songs they come across and learn more about the artist.

The code for Camera Search mentions Shazam alongside Amazon and unnamed “other partners.” That  suggests Snap may have plans to expand upon the existing integration with the service, perhaps by adding the ability for users to buy content or Apple Music subscriptions. Snap declined to comment on the report.

Image: Pixabay