Snapchat+ features

Snapchat⁢ Introduces Paid Storage Plans for Memories, Ending Unlimited​ Archive

Snapchat is rolling out paid subscription plans for its “Memories” feature, ending ⁤years ⁢of unlimited storage‍ for ⁣user-saved Snaps. The‍ change, announced this week, introduces‌ a 5GB free ‌tier and​ requires users with larger ‍archives to⁤ pay monthly‍ fees to maintain⁤ access to their complete history.

Since launching Memories in 2016, Snapchat has amassed over 1 trillion Snaps ⁢stored by its users. ⁣the company cites growing infrastructure costs as the primary driver behind the shift to a ⁤paid model, explaining it will‌ allow continued service enhancement and free access⁤ for casual users.

Users exceeding the 5GB free limit have several ‍paid options: $1.99 per month for 100GB, $3.99 per month for 250GB (bundled with Snapchat+), and⁢ $15.99 per month for 5TB under the⁣ new Snapchat Platinum subscription.

Snapchat confirmed that ⁤Snaps⁤ exceeding the storage limit will ‍be removed after 12 months unless a subscription is purchased or the content is⁢ downloaded. This marks a significant change in Snapchat’s monetization strategy, moving towards a model similar to competitors like ​Apple ⁣iCloud and Google Photos, which already offer paid storage upgrades.

Tech analysts note the pricing ⁢is competitive within the cloud storage market. The update primarily impacts long-time Snapchat users who have⁣ accumulated extensive Memories libraries. ‍Users can still download their⁣ saved ‍Snaps to avoid subscription fees.

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