Snapchat completely revamps its feature set for 'Chat 2.0'
It's like a whole new messaging platform.
Snapchat unveiled a massive update to its popular messaging app on Tuesday, replete with a slew of new functions. Chat 2.0, as the company is calling the new iteration, will enable users to effortlessly switch between communication mediums -- whether it's text, voice or video -- as the conversation dictates.
That biggest advancement comes to the platform's video and audio chats. For one, you can now initiate a video or voice call without having to already be chatting with the other person. What's more, you'll be able to post photos from your camera roll live, during the call. If the person you're calling doesn't pick up, you can now leave a short audio or video "note" -- basically a GIF-length reaction shot of your mug. What's really cool is that users will be able to swap amongst these mediums -- voice and video, calls and notes, along with text -- on the fly during the course of a conversation.
Text chat also received a significant upgrade with the new ability to upload multiple photos simultaneously as well as active hyperlinks. Smaller improvements include an auto-advancing Snapchat Stories for hands-free viewing and the addition of 200 new stickers. Finally, the company overhauled its privacy center -- relax, the Terms of Service haven't changed one iota -- making it abundantly clear exactly what the company does with your data. The latest version of Snapchat is currently available for download from iTunes and Google Play.
