For Gen Z, there’s no difference between texting and Snapping

Snapchat is where the real communication is happening.

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The Future. While young people mainly use iMessage to talk with their parents, Snapchat is where the real communication is happening, with Zoomers using the app as their go-to form of texting. It’s a phenomenon that Snap, suffering nearly $100 billion in lost value in just under two years, may be working overtime to monetize.

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For Gen Z, iMessage and Snapchat perform similar functions… for very different purposes.

  • They use iMessage — the most-used communication app for teens in the US — to talk to family members. 
  • But they use Snapchat — the second most used, with three-fourths of people 16-24 using it — to talk to friends.

Why the preference for Snapchat among peers?

  • Young people feel safer that their messages disappear.
  • Group chats can include up to 100 people, as opposed to 32 on iMessage.
  • They can easily find people and ensure it’s them.
  • They only get messages from approved friends (so no spam).
  • Snap Map lets them broadcast their location.

The big question is if Snap will be able to retain these young users even as they grow up. There is a good sign that’s happening: Jack Brody, Snap’s VP of product, says half of the app’s users are now over 25. 

No way they’re giving up that Snap streak now.

David Vendrell

Born and raised a stone’s-throw away from the Everglades, David left the Florida swamp for the California desert. Over-caffeinated, he stares at his computer too long either writing the TFP newsletter or screenplays. He is repped by Anonymous Content.

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