Snapchat has announced it will start charging users for storing photos and videos, leading to backlash from users with large archives. This change will begin on October 1, 2025.
Details of the Storage Change
The popular messaging app has allowed users to save and store previously posted content in its Memories feature since 2016. Users with more than five gigabytes (GB) of Memories will now need to pay for storage. Snap has not disclosed the exact cost for UK users, stating it will be part of a “gradual global rollout.” Users on social media have expressed dismay, accusing the company of greed.
Snap acknowledged that transitioning from free to paid services is challenging but suggested that the cost would be justified. The company stated that over one trillion Memories have been saved since the feature’s introduction. Users who exceed the 5GB limit will be prompted to upgrade to a 100GB storage plan.
Increased storage options will also be available through Snapchat+ and Snapchat Premium subscriptions. A temporary storage option will be provided for 12 months for those exceeding the limit, and users can download their saved content to their devices.
User Reactions and Future Implications
Snap has indicated that the majority of Snapchat users have less than 5GB of Memories, meaning the changes will not affect them. However, many users have criticized the decision, claiming it is unfair to force them to choose between paying for storage or losing their Memories. Some have accumulated more than 5GB over years of using the platform.
As of April, Snapchat reported exceeding 900 million monthly active users, while competitors like Instagram and TikTok have billions. Drew Benvie, a social media consultancy CEO, believes that charging for storage on social media is an inevitable trend.
