Snap Inc. is capping storage for its Snapchat Memories feature and launching paid subscription plans for users who need more space, the company announced.
Since its introduction in 2016, Snapchat Memories has allowed users to save unlimited photos and videos, building a digital archive of personal content. From now, the free storage limit will be 5GB, with additional storage available through new subscription plans.
The entry-level plan offers up to 100GB of storage for $1.99 per month. Snapchat+ subscribers, who currently pay $3.99 per month, will have their limit increased to 250GB. The top-tier Platinum plan provides 5TB of storage for $15.99 per month. Snap said the majority of users will not be affected, as most accounts do not approach the new 5GB limit.
For users who have already exceeded the 5GB cap, Snap is providing a one-year grace period before subscriptions are required. This is intended to give long-term users time to manage their archives or choose a paid plan.
The move comes as Snap seeks to diversify its revenue streams beyond advertising. The company recently launched Lens+, a $9-per-month subscription for exclusive augmented reality effects. Monetising cloud storage aligns Snapchat with other technology firms, including Google and Apple, which also offer paid cloud storage options.
“Most users will not pay more, but those with extensive Memories will need to decide whether to delete content or pay to retain it,” Snap said.
The changes aim to balance continued access to user content while introducing new monetisation opportunities for the company. Snapchat Memories remains a central feature for sharing and storing photos and videos, particularly among long-term users who use the platform as a personal archive.
