Snapchat, known for its disappearing messages and playful filters, is making changes that have some longtime users frustrated. The company announced it will soon begin limiting how much free storage users receive for Memories — the feature that saves photos and videos within the app.
Currently, Snapchat allows users unlimited storage for Memories, which often serve as digital albums of moments dating back to middle school for many teens. Under the new policy, free users will be capped at 5 gigabytes of storage (about 3,000 photos). Once that limit is reached, users must either delete old Snaps or pay for additional space.
This marks the latest expansion of Snapchat’s paid model. In 2022, the company introduced Snapchat+, a subscription that offers exclusive app features and early access to updates. However, the new storage rule has generated more backlash because it restricts something that had always been free.
Snapchat+ subscribers will automatically receive more space than free users. The standard Snapchat+ plan, priced at $3.99 per month, includes 250 gigabytes of storage. A Platinum tier offers 5 terabytes (5,000 gigabytes) for $15.99 per month. A new “Memories-Only” plan allows 100 gigabytes of space for $1.99 per month.
Users who already exceed the 5 GB limit will be given a 12-month grace period before the restriction takes effect. After that, anyone who does not pay for additional storage or reduce their saved content risks having newer Snaps deleted automatically to stay under the cap.
Many longtime Snapchat users are upset by the change, especially those who view the app as a personal archive. “That is stupid,” said sophomore Joseph Diloreti. “You shouldn’t have to pay to keep your own memories.”
With the new policy, Snapchat joins other platforms adopting subscription-based models. For many users, the update may be the push they need to finally clear out their old selfies — or start budgeting for digital nostalgia.
