Snapchat Adjusts ‘Solar System’ Feature After Teens’ Anxiety Concerns
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Snapchat has responded to concerns about its ‘solar system’ feature, following a Wall Street Journal report revealing how the feature was causing anxiety among teens. The ‘solar system’ feature displays the ranking system for paid subscribers, indicating how close users are to their Snapchat friends through their position in the solar system. After receiving feedback that the feature could increase anxiety, Snap has decided to adjust how it works.
Turning Off the Feature by Default
Instead of removing the ‘solar system’ feature, Snap has chosen to turn it off by default. Snapchat+ subscribers will still be able to turn the option on if they wish. Snap hopes that this decision will strike a balance between providing a desired feature and avoiding any potential upset for users who do not wish to use it.
A Feature Loved By a Small Percentage
According to Snap, the ‘solar system’ feature is not significantly popular, with less than 0.25% of the community using the option. While this may be the case, it is important to consider that the feature is only available to paid subscribers. Hence, a more relevant stat would be the number of Snapchat+ users who have utilized or viewed the feature.
Snapchat’s Approach to Friend Ranking Systems
The ‘solar system’ feature is just one of Snapchat’s friend ranking systems. The platform also offers a private feature called ‘Best Friends,’ which lists the individuals users communicate with the most at the top of their contact list, accompanied by a heart or smiley emoji. Another debated feature called ‘Streaks’ encourages users to stay in touch with each other by displaying the number of consecutive days they have interacted on the platform.
While Snap promises to address the potential downsides of online communication, the company has faced lawsuits, as well as inquiries from Congress, regarding some of its features, such as the controversial speed filter and the addictive nature of streaks.
By adjusting the ‘solar system’ feature, Snapchat aims to provide a better user experience and reduce potential anxieties among its young user base.
