Tech and mental health experts criticize new Snapchat+ feature

The latest feature on Snapchat+ is causing concern among experts as it ranks users’ top eight friends based on the frequency of communication, potentially adding to the anxiety and insecurities of teenagers.

The “Solar System” feature on Snapchat+ places users’ friends in a digital orbit, with the closest friend being likened to Mercury and the least close friend to Neptune. While the feature is meant to engage more users, critics argue that it can fuel insecurities within friendships during a crucial developmental stage for young people.

Experts like technology expert Amber Mac and Rebecca Rackow from the Canadian Mental Health Association warn that the feature could deteriorate a child’s mental health and give users a false sense of their social standing. Critics also point out that the feature does not consider the quality of conversations or time spent on the app.

Despite the concerns, only about one percent of Snapchat users subscribe to the paid version that offers the solar system feature, with the majority being older than 18. Teenagers like 14-year-old Perla Massier, who spoke to CTV News, use the app for staying connected with friends and find it to be an easy way to communicate.

While there are positives to using social media apps like Snapchat, experts emphasize the importance of having conversations about the potential impacts and limitations of these platforms. More discussions between young people, parents, and teachers are needed to navigate the complexities of social media and its effects on mental health.