Snapchat Memories Storage: New Limits and Paid Plans
Snapchat Memories storage is undergoing significant changes. Nearly a decade after launching the feature, the social media platform is now introducing a cap on free storage at 5GB, effectively ending the unlimited cloud space previously available for saved Snaps.
Introducing Storage Limits for Snapchat Memories
The company has confirmed that users who go beyond the 5GB limit will have to either export their Memories or sign up for one of the new paid storage plans. According to an email sent to TechCrunch, the base plan will provide 100GB of storage at a cost of $1.99 each month.
Subscriptions for Expanded Snapchat Memories Storage
For those who subscribe to Snapchat+, currently priced at $3.99 monthly, there will be access to 250GB of storage. Meanwhile, subscribers to the Snapchat Platinum plan, which costs $15.99, will be granted up to 5TB of storage.
Implications of the New 5GB Limit
If users choose not to upgrade their storage, Snapchat will automatically delete the most recent Snaps once they hit the 5GB storage limit, retaining only the oldest content. Users will have a grace period of 12 months during which extra Memories will temporarily remain stored before any deletion occurs.
Options for Exporting Memories
This change has led many users to manually export their Memories instead of subscribing to a paid plan. Snapchat’s export feature lets individuals save batches of up to 100 photos or videos simultaneously to their camera roll, although this process can be time-consuming for larger collections.
Downloading Entire Snapchat Memories Archive
Alternatively, individuals can download their complete Memories archive through the “Download My Data” option available in the app’s settings. This method sends a .zip file via email that includes all selected Snaps and data, providing a one-time backup solution without requiring a subscription.
Monetising Snapchat Memories
The new Snapchat storage model showcases the platform’s broader strategy to monetise features that have historically been free. Launched in 2016, Memories has become one of Snapchat’s most cherished tools, allowing users to easily revisit old Snaps and Stories stored privately within the app. As Snapchat aims to find a balance between user experience and generating subscription revenue, it appears that even nostalgia will now come with a price tag.