In a significant shift, Snapchat will restrict access to its Spotlight feature for users aged 13 to 15. This change, effective immediately, prohibits these younger teens from posting videos to the public Spotlight section, where content can be viewed by all app users. Previously, users as young as 13 were allowed to share videos publicly, but this policy has now been altered.
Instead of public contributions, Snapchat will introduce a new "profile" feature for younger users. This will allow them to share shortform content restricted to mutual friends, enhancing privacy and reducing exposure to wider audiences. Additionally, Stories will also be visible only to friends, further minimizing social pressures associated with public metrics.
Snap’s decision aims to foster creativity in a safer environment while addressing growing concerns about teen safety on social media. The company has been under scrutiny regarding its practices related to child safety, leading to the implementation of enhanced parental controls. Currently, Snap faces multiple lawsuits related to its child safety practices.