Snapchat is taking a rare step beyond its famously private DNA with the launch of Topic Chats, a new feature designed to let users join public conversations around trending moments, fandoms, and shared interests.
The rollout marks one of Snapchat’s biggest shifts in years. Until now, the only place where public discussion truly existed on the platform was inside Spotlight comments. But after observing how users naturally gather around trending topics, Snapchat is formalizing that behavior into a dedicated, community-driven chat experience.
Public Chats, Private Profiles
Despite opening the door to public conversation, Snapchat insists privacy remains core to the experience:
- Profiles will stay hidden from anyone you’re not friends with.
- Your display name is visible in a Topic Chat, but it can’t be tapped to view your profile.
- Display names also aren’t searchable, further preventing unwanted friend requests or DMs.
Topic Chats are designed to reduce friction while still avoiding the discovery mechanics that fuel other social platforms.
Safety Powered by AI + Moderation
Snapchat says Topic Chats will be heavily moderated using:
- LLM-powered safety systems
- Human review
- Existing Community Guidelines enforcement
Users can report messages, and Snapchat will warn or block accounts that violate policies. The company is positioning Topic Chats as a safer alternative to the free-for-all comment sections found on larger social networks.
A New Layer of Discovery
Topic Chats will surface across the app in multiple places, including:
- Chat shortcuts
- Search
- The Stories page
- Spotlight videos
If a Story or Spotlight clip features a big yellow “Join the Chat” button, you can tap in and instantly enter a themed chatroom. Snapchat will also show you which Topic Chats your friends have joined, a subtle social nudge designed to help users find shared interests.
In addition to text conversations, Topic Chats will also recommend related Spotlight videos, tying together chat, discovery, and short-form entertainment.
Why Snapchat Is Doing This
According to the company, the move was inspired by the sheer volume of public conversation emerging inside Spotlight. As Snapchat expanded into creator-driven formats, it saw that users wanted a space to react, debate, and participate around cultural moments, without leaving the app.
“Snapchatters create billions of Snaps every day… and we’ve found that the community loves commenting publicly about trending topics and events,” the company said.
Topic Chats are rolling out over the coming weeks to users in Canada, New Zealand and The United States.
Messages sent in these chats will be retained for up to five years, a notable difference from Snapchat’s signature disappearing-message model.