Snapchat Introduces Paid Storage Plans & Free Caps on Memories

Snapchat Introduces Paid Storage for Memories

For almost ten years, Snapchat has functioned as a digital repository for personal moments. Now, the platform is implementing a fee for its Memories feature.

Access to this feature, previously free, will be capped at 5GB. Users whose stored memories surpass this limit will be required to subscribe to one of Snapchat’s newly introduced Memories Storage plans.

New Storage Plan Options

According to a statement provided to TechCrunch, the initial storage option provides up to 100GB of space for $1.99 each month.

Snapchat+ subscribers will receive up to 250GB of storage included within their existing $3.99 monthly fee.

Those with a Snapchat Platinum subscription will benefit from a substantial 5TB of storage as part of their $15.99 monthly commitment.

The Rationale Behind the Change

Snapchat explains that the initial launch of Memories did not anticipate its current scale. Users have collectively saved over 1 trillion Memories on the platform.

“We recognize that transitioning from a complimentary service to a paid one isn’t straightforward,” Snapchat stated in a blog post. “However, we are confident that the value offered by Memories justifies the associated cost.”

The company believes these changes will enable continued investment in improving the Memories experience for all users.

What Happens to Existing Memories?

Snapchat will offer a 12-month grace period of temporary storage for any Memories exceeding the 5GB limit.

Users retain the ability to download their Memories directly to their personal devices.

For those exceeding the limit who do not subscribe to a plan, the oldest Snaps will be preserved, while newer Snaps exceeding the storage capacity will be deleted.

Impact on Users

Snapchat anticipates that the majority of its user base will not be affected, as most currently store less than 5GB of Memories.

The change will primarily impact users with a large volume of saved Snaps – those with “thousands of Snaps,” as noted by the company.

Monetization and Infrastructure

This decision to introduce paid storage for Memories allows Snapchat to manage increasing infrastructure expenses and generate revenue from users requiring significant storage capacity, while maintaining free access for the majority of its user base.