Snapchat’s new paid subscription service called Snapchat+ has caused mixed reactions among users. While some welcome the additional features, others feel it goes against Snapchat’s original values. This article examines the reasons why Snapchat subscriptions may be unfriending some users.
What is Snapchat+?
In June 2022, Snapchat launched Snapchat+, a $3.99 per month subscription service that unlocks exclusive features such as:
- Custom Snapchat icons
- Custom stories for close friends
- Pinning a friend as a #1 BFF
- Ghost trails on snaps
- New badges and emojis
- Seeing who rewatched stories
Snapchat+ is Snap’s first ever subscription service aimed at its most loyal users. It provides bonus features on top of Snapchat’s existing free experience.
Why some users are unfriending Snapchat+
While Snapchat+ offers neat perks for hardcore fans, its launch has been met with criticism by some users who feel it goes against Snapchat’s original identity. Here are some key reasons why Snapchat subscriptions are unfriending certain users:
Paying for features that used to be free
One of the main frustrations around Snapchat+ is that some features used to be free for all users. For example, the ability to pin someone as your “#1 BFF” was previously available for everyone. Putting formerly free features behind a paywall rubs some users the wrong way.
Feeling excluded from basic Snapchat experiences
With certain features now gated to paying subscribers, free Snapchatters may feel left out of core social experiences on the app. Not being able to pin a best friend or have a custom Snapchat icon can make non-subscribers feel like second-class citizens.
Breaking the feel of Snapchat
Snapchat originally became popular for its spontaneous, in-the-moment feel. The addition of exclusive features changes that vibe for some original users. Snapchat+ encourages more curated, staged interactions rather than natural sharing. This goes against what some users love about Snapchat.
Favoring influencers over average friends
Snapchat+ has been criticized for catering to influencers and creators over everyday friends. Features like advanced analytics and custom stories feed the growing creator culture on Snapchat. For users who prefer privately snapping their real friends, this feels exclusionary.
A money grab by Snap
Some view Snapchat’s subscription service as a greedy cash grab rather than adding real value. By taking away features that used to be free, Snapchat is deliberately putting up paywalls to squeeze more revenue from its loyal user base.
Too expensive
$3.99 per month or $39.99 per year is considered high by some, especially for younger users. Teens may not have the means to pay a monthly fee just to pin a bestie or have a custom Snapchat emoji.
Who is Snapchat+ really for?
While Snapchat+ faces backlash from certain groups, it’s designed to appeal to the platform’s most engaged users including:
- Snapchat influencers, creators, celebrities who want exclusive features
- Gen Z power users who use Snapchat as their main social app
- Loyal Snapchatters who spend lots of time daily on the platform
- Long-time Snapchat users who want VIP treatment
For these elite Snapchatters, $3.99 per month is worth it for the elevated Snapchat experience. Snapchat+ lets them stand out and be rewarded for their loyalty.
Tips for deciding if Snapchat+ is right for you
With all the mixed opinions around Snapchat’s paid subscription, how do you decide if it’s the right choice for you? Here are some helpful tips:
Try out the 1-month free trial first
Snapchat is offering a 1-month free trial of Snapchat+ in the United States. Take advantage of the trial to experience the exclusive features before paying.
Reflect on how you use Snapchat
Do you use Snapchat daily to message close friends? Or are you an influencer using it to build your brand? Your usage patterns will indicate if Snapchat+ is worthwhile.
Compare with other subscriptions you have
Put Snapchat+ in context with other subscriptions like Spotify, Netflix, etc. If $3.99 per month is comparable to what you pay for other services you value, it may be worth it.
Consider if FOMO (fear of missing out) is impacting your decision
Do you really feel like you need these exclusive features? Or are you only considering subscribing because you’re worried about feeling left out if you don’t?
Determine your must-have and nice-to-have features
Go through the Snapchat+ features and decide which ones feel essential for you versus just nice extras. Focus on the must-haves.
Talk to friends who have subscribed
Get first-hand reviews from friends who have tried Snapchat+ already. Their real-life experiences can help shape your decision.
Snapchat+ isn’t for everyone
While Snapchat+ has a loud fanbase singing its praises, the service clearly isn’t for all Snapchat users. For those unhappy with the subscription, it may be time to re-evaluate their relationship with Snapchat.
If Snapchat+ crosses a line for you philosophically, don’t be afraid to uninstall Snapchat and switch to alternative apps. There are plenty of ways to keep in touch with friends without feeding into subscription fatigue.
At the end of the day, listen to your gut. If Snapchat+ feels like a breach of trust to you, don’t subscribe just to maintain your Snap Streaks. Snapchat may have unfriended you first with this move.