The latest Snapchat update brings new features via in-app purchases for the first time. But will the ability to replay already-seen pictures and videos stop its users from sexting?
"You can use a Replay on any Snap you receive, but you can only Replay any Snap once," the company said last week.
Snapchat announced it is bringing the ability to purchase extra "Replays" for $ 0.99 for three. Without the purchase, users can only view snaps once and get an additional replay each day free of charge.
"The offer is the latest move away from the idea of 'ephemeral messaging' which once lay at Snapchat's core," The Guardian said.
Along with Replays, the update also brings "Lenses." The new feature allows users to alter their faces in real-time using facing recognition technology. Seven are currently available although it's likely Snapchat will bring more in the future, according to the website.
And while the Snapchat update has users posting photos of themselves vomiting rainbows, The Telegraph can't help but ask if "Replays" would put an end to the app's use for sexting.
As the website noted, the app is popular for sexting because photos can be sent without fear of having it end up on social media "as it self-destructs in a matter of seconds."
The introduction of "Replays" could result in less sexting among users "if [they] wise up to this new feature."
Then again, it could go the opposite way and give rise to Snapchat porn.
"It isn't inconceivable that someone could use the apparent non-permanent nature of the platform to coax another person into sending the - then paying to replay and screenshot the picture," The Telegraph said.
It remains to be seen how "Replay" would affect Snapchat users as far as sexting is concerned.
The Snapchat update can be accessed in the App Store or Play Store depending on your device.
