Snap Map, a feature within the Snapchat app that allows users to view locations and events, has reached more than 400 million monthly active users, parent company Snap SNAP 0.00%↑ announced last week.
Snap Map allows Snapchatters to connect with friends and explore their surroundings. The feature differentiates itself from traditional digital maps by emphasizing real-time connections to a user’s physical world, according to the company.
Snapchat, launched in 2011, initially gained popularity for its disappearing photo and video messages, particularly among teenagers and young adults. According to Snap Inc.’s investor relations site, the company reported 800 million monthly active users across the entire Snapchat platform as of 2024.
The growth of Snap Map reflects Snapchat’s efforts to expand its features and retain users. The company has increasingly focused on location-based services and partnerships to enhance user engagement and create opportunities for businesses, including “Promoted Places” on Snap Map.
Snap Map’s user base indicates its importance within the Snapchat ecosystem, providing a platform for users to make plans, discover local businesses, and stay informed about nearby events.
However, Snap Map has also raised privacy concerns. The feature’s ability to show a user’s location in real-time has led to worries about potential stalking or unwanted attention, particularly for younger users. Users can control their visibility on the map, but the default setting and the app’s design have led to scrutiny from privacy advocates.
