Snapchat is all set to launch a web version of its app. Snapchat for the desktop will allow users to make video calls and send messages straight from their desktop PCs. Initially, it will be only accessible to Snapchat+ subscribers (and in specific parts).

According to Snapchat:

“Open your laptop and head to web.snapchat.com using Chrome to start a call or pick up where chats left off on mobile. With more than 100 million Snapchatters using our voice and video calling each month on average, we’re excited to offer a new way for our community to keep conversations going on their computers, where they’re already working, learning, and browsing.”

The ‘working’ part is likely a significant motivator here – with so many people working from home in the rise of the pandemic, Snapchat probably witnesses more opportunities to increase its connections by forming a separate web app.

The new web interface will include various options, including Chat Reactions and Chat Reply. Also, this initiative will help to understand the usage behaviors in the app.

Like the regular functioning of the app, your Snaps will vanish after 24 hours, with web views counting just the same as in-app opens of a text message.

Snap will also add Lenses into the format as it looks to boost more functionality.

As mentioned, it could be an exciting and engaging way to boost Snap usage. However, it’s only accessible in a limited form delivering Snapchat+ subscribers in the US, UK, and Canada.

Snapchat+, which Snap just launched a while ago, is its ‘Twitter Blue’ like subscriber option, which offers users access to a variety of new tools and in-development features for $3.99/month.

Considerably like Twitter Blue, most of those are not very impressive. But, if Snap adds more features like this to its subscription offering, that could make it a more compelling proposition.

Either way, Snapchat on the web will ultimately be open to all users. At the same time, those in Australia and New Zealand will be able to function this option soon through this link. 

It’s only available through Chrome, but Snap is also looking to add permission for more web browsers, eventually fostering ample opportunities to engage with friends through Snap.

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