Snapchat

Definition

Snapchat is a multimedia messaging app that allows users to send photos and videos, known as 'Snaps', which are designed to disappear after being viewed. It is known for its emphasis on ephemeral content, enabling users to share moments without the permanence of traditional social media platforms. Snapchat also offers features like Stories and Discover, making it a unique player in the online video landscape.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Snapchat was launched in 2011 by Evan Spiegel, Bobby Murphy, and Reggie Brown, originally focusing on the temporary sharing of images.
2. The app's unique selling point is its disappearing messages feature, which has influenced other platforms to adopt similar functionalities.
3. Snapchat introduced 'Stories' in 2013, allowing users to share a series of Snaps that tell a story over a 24-hour period, revolutionizing how people share content.
4. The platform heavily focuses on user engagement through interactive features like filters and lenses that encourage creativity and fun.
5. Snapchat has grown into a major platform for video content, with the 'Discover' feature providing users access to short-form videos from various publishers and influencers.

Review Questions

• How does Snapchat's focus on ephemeral content distinguish it from traditional social media platforms?
  • Snapchat's emphasis on ephemeral content sets it apart from traditional platforms by allowing users to share moments that vanish after being viewed. This encourages spontaneous sharing and reduces the pressure to curate perfect posts, making interactions feel more authentic. Unlike platforms where posts remain indefinitely, Snapchat fosters a culture of immediacy and intimacy, influencing how users engage with friends and consume content.
• Discuss the impact of features like 'Stories' and 'Discover' on user engagement within the Snapchat platform.
  • 'Stories' and 'Discover' significantly enhance user engagement by providing dynamic ways to share and consume content. The 'Stories' feature encourages users to create a narrative with their Snaps, while 'Discover' offers curated content from various media outlets, appealing to users' interests. This blend of personal sharing and professional content creates a vibrant ecosystem where users can interact with both their friends and broader media in an engaging manner.
• Evaluate how Snapchat's innovative features have influenced trends in online video consumption across other platforms.
  • Snapchat's innovative features like disappearing messages, Stories, and augmented reality filters have reshaped trends in online video consumption by promoting shorter, more engaging content. As other platforms adopted similar ephemeral features, such as Instagram Stories and Facebook Stories, Snapchat set a precedent for how audiences prefer quick, digestible video formats. This shift reflects a broader trend towards bite-sized content consumption, encouraging creators across various platforms to adapt their strategies to capture audience attention in increasingly crowded digital spaces.

Related terms

Stories: A feature that allows users to compile Snaps into a chronological narrative that can be viewed by friends for 24 hours.

Filters: Augmented reality overlays that can be applied to Snaps, allowing users to enhance their photos and videos with fun graphics and effects.

Discover: A section of Snapchat where users can view curated content from media partners, including short videos and articles.