In a move to enhance user experience and boost its subscription service, Snapchat announced a wave of new features on Tuesday. These features focus on personalization, aiming to set Snapchat apart from competitors and incentivize users to join Snapchat+, which currently boasts 9 million subscribers.
A Home on Snap Map: Exclusively for Snapchat+ users, a brand new feature allows customizing a virtual house on Snap Map, visible to location-sharing friends. Users can unleash their creativity with style, color, and design choices, crafting a realistic abode or a fantastical castle. This unique feature differentiates Snap Map from location-based services like Find My and Life360.
Bringing Pets into Chats: Pet lovers rejoice! Snapchat+ subscribers can now have their furry companions join their Bitmoji in chats. Previously, pets were only visible on Snap Map, but now they can be a constant presence alongside their human counterparts.
Lightning-Fast Snaps: Snapchat, the pioneer of ephemeral content, is pushing the boundaries even further. Subscribers can now send or post “lightning Snaps” lasting a mere 0.10, 0.20, or 0.50 seconds. This innovative feature takes the concept of fleeting content to new heights.
Standard User Perks: For the broader user base, Snapchat is introducing a “live mirror” within the Bitmoji Builder. This feature utilizes the camera viewfinder to automatically suggest Bitmoji features that best resemble the user, simplifying the personalization process.
By offering exclusive customization options and pushing the boundaries of ephemeral content, Snapchat is making a clear effort to differentiate itself in the crowded social media landscape. At the same time, these features incentivize users to explore Snapchat+, potentially expanding its subscriber base.
