Overview: Snapchat shifts Memories storage to a paid model for high-usage users
In a move that could reshape how heavy Snapchat users manage their personal archives, the company announced on Friday, September 26, that it will begin charging users who store more than 5 gigabytes (GB) of Memories — the photo and video collection saved within the app. The change targets the portion of Snapchatters who have thousands of Snaps tucked away in Memories, while the vast majority with under 5GB will see no change.
Team Snapchat framed the decision as a way to ensure long‑term storage viability and to offer options for those who need additional space. The company highlighted that Memories, launched in 2016, has grown far beyond a simple camera roll, with users around the world saving more than 1 trillion pieces of content since its inception.
What the new Memories Storage Plans look like
According to Snapchat, there will be tiered storage options accessible through the app’s subscription services. The initial offerings include 100GB and 250GB of storage via Snapchat+, and a much larger 5 terabytes (TB) option through a separate plan labeled Snapchat Platinum. For users who hover just above the 5GB threshold, Snapchat says the company will provide 12 months of temporary storage to help them transition.
For most users, the company notes that “For the vast majority of Snapchatters, who have less than 5GB of Memories, nothing will change.” The exact pricing for these storage plans has not been disclosed publicly, and Snapchat has not given a firm timeline for when billing will begin.
Who is affected and how it could change behavior
The policy appears aimed at “heavy” Savers—those with thousands of Snaps stored in Memories. While the majority of users won’t see a change, the new plans could incentivize some to periodically prune their Memories, export their data, or move large archives offline. The move also signals a broader trend in social platforms: monetizing storage and data stewardship for power users while keeping a free tier for casual users.
How to download your Memories to avoid potential charges
For Snapchatters who don’t want to pay for extra storage, there are two paths. First, you can export individual Snaps from Memories:
- Open Snapchat and tap the Memories icon.
- Long‑press the Snaps you want to save, then choose Export.
- Pick where to download your files on your device.
Second, you can download a full data export from Snapchat’s data portal. This process involves navigating to accounts.snapchat.com, selecting “My Data,” choosing the data range you want, confirming your email, and submitting the request. Once ready, Snapchat will email a link to download a ZIP file containing your Memories along with other data.
What we know and what remains unclear
As of now, Snapchat has not released specific pricing details for the Memories Storage Plans, nor a start date for billing. The company confirmed the existence of the plans and the general framework but did not provide a timeline for rollout. News outlets have reached out for comment, and users are left awaiting concrete numbers and a regional availability map.
Implications for users and the platform
The introduction of paid storage underscores a broader shift in digital platforms toward monetizing data stewardship and optional value-added services. For Snapchat, the change could help manage server costs and ensure robust long-term storage while offering dedicated options for power users. For users, the key takeaway is to consider how big Memories collections have become and to evaluate whether a paid plan aligns with their value of stored memories. The ability to export data provides a practical safety net for those who prefer to archive their moments outside the app.
Bottom line
Snapchat’s Memories Storage Plans mark a notable pivot in how the app handles archives. While most will remain unaffected, those with large Memories libraries should monitor pricing announcements and plan ahead, either by upgrading storage or exporting their data. As more details emerge, users will be able to decide whether to stay on the free tier or opt into the extra storage for peace of mind and convenience.
