Snapchat removed the Best Friends list feature and 'stalkers' are upset
Feature showed you who other users most snapped with
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Snapchat update has today removed the Best Friends feature, which allowed users to see the people other users snapped with the most.
It was popular as a slightly invasive way of keeping tabs on who friends or loved ones are talking to or exchanging pictures with the most, and its departure has caused a tide of emotion.
Some rejoiced at being able to communicate more anonymously:
Other felt like they'd lost control over their relationships:
Most simply questioned the health of relationships that require Best Friends snooping:
In response to the complaints, Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel tweeted that the feature will be reinstated through a new update this afternoon.
This is the latest example of techno-paranoia, following Whatsapp's introduction of blue ticks that let you know when a friend has seen your messages.
Yesterday, Snapchat introduced Discover, with which it hopes to encourage news organisations to use the site.
The tool allows companies to set up channels that will then send stories and media through the app. Users will click on each of the media companies’ channels and then be shown photos, videos, "awesome long form layouts" and adverts.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments