Snapchat, the ephemeral messaging application kids love and parents fear, is improving in a couple of key ways. In a blog post this morning, the Snapchat team broke down enhancements to Snap and Story viewing, friend adding, and Snapcode snapping in tow with an updated client for iOS and Android.
The change to Snaps and Stories is the headliner, and it’s a big one: you can now watch them with a single tap. As longtime Snapchat users are no doubt aware, viewing messages previously required long-pressing with your thumb, which could become tiresome during marathon sessions. No need to worry about carpal tunnel or finger strains now.
But reducing taps isn’t the only way Snapchat’s looking out for your physiological well-being. It’s becoming more social with Add Nearby, “a quick way to add a group of friends when you’re all hanging out together.” Here’s how it works: open the Add Friends menu and tap on Add Nearby, and have the people you’re with do the same. Instant Snapchat buds.
If introversion is how you roll, though, not to worry. Snapcodes, the QR codes that makes it quicker and easier for Internet friends to follow you on Snapchat, are gaining a personal flair: you can now add a selfie to the center of them. You’ll find the new feature on the Add Friends screen, Snapchat says.
Finally, Snapchat’s getting two-factor authentication. For the uninitiated, that means better security: Rather than relying on a single, unchanging password to safeguard your account from folks ill-intentioned, you can get have Snapchat send a unique code each time you log in. The added protection is well worth the minor hassle.
The new and improve Snapchat is rolling out now. Check your respective app store — that’s the Play Store on Android and the App Store on iOS — for the latest.
