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Snapchat Starts Rolling Out ‘Topic Chats’ for Public, Topic-Based Conversations

Snap is expanding beyond private messaging to curated public rooms with built-in privacy controls.

Overview

  • The phased rollout begins over the coming weeks in the United States, Canada, and New Zealand.
  • Topic Chats appear in Chat shortcuts, search, the Stories page, and on Spotlight videos, with entry via a prominent yellow “Join the Chat” button.
  • Display names are visible in conversations while profiles remain non-tappable and display names cannot be used for search to reduce unwanted contact.
  • Snap will deploy LLMs and other safety systems to moderate discussions, enable reporting, and enforce rules with actions such as warnings and account blocks.
  • Messages may be retained for up to five years, and conversations cluster related Snaps and surface Spotlight videos while showing when friends have joined.