Snapchat+ explained: what Snapchats premium tier offers US users

Snapchat+ is Snapchats optional premium subscription layer that gives dedicated users early access to experimental and exclusive features on top of the free Snapchat app, according to the companys product description as of mid-2024 Snap, 06/29/2022.

As of: 06/10/2026 | Reading time: approx. 8 minutes

By the AD HOC NEWS editorial team - specialized in product-focused market coverage.

What Snapchat+ Is and How It Works

Snapchat+ is an add-on subscription inside the normal Snapchat app that offers subscribers experimental and exclusive features, while core messaging and Stories remain free for everyone Snap, 06/29/2022.

Subscribers manage Snapchat+ directly in the app, where they can start a free trial in markets where it is available and then continue on a recurring subscription managed through Apple App Store or Google Play billing systems Snap Support, 2024.

Snapchat+ does not remove ads from the service; Snap explains in its launch communication that subscribers still see ads, and the subscription is focused on new capabilities rather than an ad-free experience Snap, 06/29/2022.

Key feature themes inside Snapchat+

According to Snap, Snapchat+ features include visual customization like exclusive app icons, special badges, and new ways to highlight your best friends list, building on the apps existing focus on personalization Snap Support, 2024.

The subscription also acts as an early access lane where paying users can try select upcoming features before they roll out more widely, with Snap positioning this as a way for the company to test and learn from its most engaged community members Snap, 06/29/2022.

Why Snapchat+ Matters for US Consumers and Industry

For US users, Snapchat+ offers a way to customize the app more deeply and get new experimental features early, without changing the fundamental free access to messaging, Snaps, and Stories Snap Support, 2024.

From an industry perspective, Snap has pointed to subscriptions like Snapchat+ as part of its strategy to diversify revenue beyond advertising, complementing its large US ad business built around augmented reality lenses and mobile video Snap Investor, 2023.

US creators and brands that rely on Snapchat for reaching younger audiences can also benefit when Snapchat+ unlocks features that enhance engagement around Stories and direct interactions, even if they themselves do not subscribe, because some tools eventually migrate to the general user base New York Times, 06/29/2022.

Snapchat+ in the US and Global Market

Snapchat+ is positioned for power users in key markets including the United States, where Snapchat has described its community as highly engaged, using the app primarily for visual messaging with close friends Snap, 06/29/2022.

Industry coverage notes that Snap, like other US-based social media platforms, has introduced paid tiers as part of a broader shift toward subscription revenue, alongside competitors that have launched their own premium offerings for advanced features and user recognition Wall Street Journal, 06/29/2022.

In its communication to investors, Snap has framed Snapchat+ as one of several initiatives aimed at improving the long-term financial profile of the company, even though advertising continues to represent the majority of revenue today Snap Investor, 2023.

• Optional subscription for power users on top of free Snapchat
• Offers experimental and exclusive features before wider release
• Focuses on personalization, badges, and visual customization
• Does not currently turn Snapchat into an ad-free experience

Frequently Asked Questions About Snapchat+

Is Snapchat+ required to use Snapchat in the United States?
No. Snapchat remains free to download and use in the US, and Snapchat+ is an optional subscription for additional and experimental features Snap Support, 2024.

Does Snapchat+ remove ads in the app?
Snap states that Snapchat+ does not currently make Snapchat an ad-free experience and that subscribers may still see ads in the app Snap, 06/29/2022.

How do US users subscribe or cancel Snapchat+?
US users can start Snapchat+ from their profile settings in the app and manage or cancel the subscription through their Apple App Store or Google Play billing settings Snap Support, 2024.

Snapchat+ is offered by Snap Inc., the US-based camera and social media company behind the Snapchat platform.

Snap Inc. shares trade under ISIN US83304A1060 on the New York Stock Exchange via the SNAP ticker.

Disclaimer: This article does not constitute investment advice. Stocks are volatile financial instruments.