Companies and other apps have been taking pot shots at Snapchat for months now, mimicking and sometimes outright cloning features of the app. Now it looks like Snapchat is taking steps to gain further recognition by introducing Snapchat Groups, the new group messaging feature.
Snapchat Groups can hold up to 16 people. It’s not a big limit, but it’s ideal for small sized events such as outings with friends. Much like other chat apps out there, such as Facebook Messenger, you can share voice clips, videos, pictures and even stickers with members of the conversation. The names of members will be listed at the bottom of the chat window and tapping each name will open up a private chat. You can return to the group chat in one swipe, with the whole process called “Quick Chat”.
But there is a Snapchat flair to set it apart from other chat apps out there. Chats sent in the group are deleted after 24 hours. Meanwhile, Snaps sent to a Group can be opened and replayed just once by each recipient. If a Snap isn’t opened, it’s deleted after 24 hours. As a result, you’d only ideally use Snapchat Groups for on the fly plans and not long term plans.
There are numerous other new features that come with the update, including a scissors tool to snip out parts of a snap to then turn into a sticker. Furthermore, a paintbrush tool will now make snaps that are saved in the memories area to turn them into “artistic masterpieces.”
Another very interesting feature that has been added is Shazam support. Shazam is an app that users can use to identify the song that’s playing over the radio or the intercom of a mall or any other situation. Snapchat users can hold down the display, displaying the loading icon. The song will then display along with the band. More information about the song, including the lyrics and music video can then be selected. The best part? You don’t need to have Shazam installed.
