The update introduces public chat rooms organized by themes, ranging from entertainment and sports to lifestyle and technology. Unlike private group chats, Topic Chats are open spaces where anyone can join, contribute, and engage in discussions. Snapchat says the goal is to create a more dynamic community experience, allowing users to connect beyond their immediate circle of friends.
Each Topic Chat functions like a live forum, with messages appearing in real time. Moderation tools are built in to ensure safety, including content filters and reporting options. The feature is also algorithmically curated, meaning users will see chats that align with their interests and activity patterns. This personalization aims to keep conversations relevant while encouraging discovery of new communities.
Snapchat’s move comes as social platforms increasingly experiment with group-based interaction. TikTok has leaned into community-driven content, while Discord thrives on topic-specific servers. By introducing Topic Chats, Snapchat is positioning itself as a hybrid—combining ephemeral messaging with structured, interest-based dialogue.
The company believes this feature will boost engagement, particularly among younger users who enjoy spontaneous, meme-driven conversations. Early tests show that Topic Chats are being used for everything from debating sports results to sharing reactions to viral videos. Brands and creators may also find opportunities to host discussions, expanding their reach in a more interactive format.
While Snapchat has traditionally focused on one-to-one and small group communication, Topic Chats represent a shift toward larger-scale social interaction. Analysts suggest this could help the platform compete more directly with rivals by offering a space where communities can form organically, without leaving the app.
The rollout is expected to expand globally in the coming months, with Snapchat promising continuous updates to improve moderation and user experience.
