Snapchat to Roll Out Message Editing, AI-Powered Features, and More

Snapchat is set to introduce a slew of new features aimed at enhancing the user experience on the platform. The updates, which will begin rolling out first for Snapchat Plus subscribers, include the ability to edit sent messages, AI-powered reminders and Bitmoji customization, '90s-themed AI Lenses, expanded emoji reactions, and location-based map interactions.

One of the most notable additions is the option for users to edit their messages within 5 minutes of sending them, as long as the recipient has not yet opened the message. This feature will initially be available exclusively to Snapchat+ subscribers, who pay a monthly fee of $3.99 for access to exclusive and experimental features. The edited messages will be labeled to indicate that they have been modified post-sending.

Snapchat is also leveraging artificial intelligence to introduce several new capabilities. Users can now ask the platform's AI assistant, My AI, to set reminders for important deadlines or events directly within chats or conversations. Additionally, Snapchatters can use AI to design custom clothing for their Bitmoji avatars, generating unique patterns and editing their favorite designs.

Why this matters: Snapchat's integration of AI-powered features demonstrates the company's commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. By offering practical applications of AI, such as reminders and personalized avatar customization, Snapchat aims to enhance user engagement and drive more subscriptions to its Snapchat+ service.

The update also includes a new '90s-themed AI Lens, which transforms users' selfies into retro Polaroid-style photos. Expanded emoji reactions now allow Snapchatters to respond to messages using any emoji, in addition to their Bitmoji. For users who share their location on the Snap Map, Snapchat has introduced location-based interactions, such as sending a wave when friends pass each other or a heart when someone arrives at their destination safely.

"We're excited to introduce a range of new features that give Snapchatters even more ways to express themselves and stay connected with the people they care about," said a Snapchat spokesperson. "By integrating AI capabilities and expanding our messaging tools, we're providing our community with fun and functional enhancements that make their Snapchat experience more engaging and personalized."

The new features are now available to Snapchat users globally, with the exception of the message editing tool, which will be rolled out to Snapchat+ subscribers in the coming weeks. Snapchat reports that its users create more than 5 billion Snaps on average every day, highlighting the app's popularity as a visual communication platform.

Key Takeaways

• Snapchat introduces new features like editable messages, AI-powered reminders, and Bitmoji customization.
• Message editing is initially exclusive to Snapchat+ subscribers, with edited messages labeled as modified.
• Snapchat leverages AI for reminders, Bitmoji avatar customization, and '90s-themed Lenses.
• New location-based interactions allow users to wave, send hearts when friends arrive safely.
• Snapchat aims to enhance user engagement and drive Snapchat+ subscriptions with these updates.