Snapchat Debuts Lightning Snaps: Flash Photos in 0.1 Seconds!

Snapchat has introduced a range of new features exclusively for its Snapchat+ subscribers. These features, which enhance personalization and user experience, may eventually be available to all users. Here are the highlights of the new additions:

Enhanced Personalization Options

One of the significant updates for Snapchat+ users is the ability to customize the houses displayed on the Snap Map. Similar to the My Car and My Pet customization options, users can now personalize their virtual homes. According to Snapchat, these options provide nearly infinite combinations, from realistic homes to imaginative candy castles.

Additionally, the Snap Map now allows users to display their pets. The My Pet section in the profile lets users customize their pets, which will then appear next to their custom Bitmoji in chats. This feature adds a fun and personalized touch to interactions with friends.

Introducing Lightning Snaps

Among the new features exclusive to Snapchat+ is the introduction of Lightning Snaps. This feature allows users to post Stories with extremely short expiration options, lasting as little as 0.1, 0.25, or 0.5 seconds. This is designed to provide a quick and fleeting way to share moments with friends.

It's important to note that Lightning Snaps is distinct from the existing Tiny Snaps feature. Tiny Snaps, also available to Snapchat+ subscribers, allows users to send an image into any chat as a custom emoji.

The camera icon transforms into a Tiny Snap icon while messaging friends, letting users share real-time expressions rather than approximations with standard emojis.

New Features for All Snapchat Users

Snapchat has not forgotten its base users and has rolled out some exciting new features for everyone:

Mirror Setting in Bitmoji Builder

A new Mirror setting in the Bitmoji Builder screen utilizes the front-facing camera, allowing users to compare their Bitmoji to their real appearance in real-time. This feature aims to help users create Bitmojis that closely resemble their actual look, enhancing the personalization of their digital avatars.

AI-Powered Lenses

Snapchat has also introduced new AI-powered lenses available to all users. One of the standout lenses is the “My 5-Year-Old Self,” which allows users to transform their appearance to look like their younger selves. This lens offers a fun and nostalgic way to engage with the app's augmented reality features.

Conclusion

Snapchat's latest updates bring a mix of exclusive and universally available features, focusing on personalization and enhanced user experience. While Snapchat+ subscribers enjoy advanced customization options and the innovative Lightning Snaps feature, all users can benefit from the new Bitmoji Mirror setting and AI-powered lenses. These updates continue to push the boundaries of social media interaction, making Snapchat a dynamic and engaging platform for its users.