Los Angeles, California – Snapchat has recently made adjustments to its “solar system” feature after concerns were raised about its impact on teens’ anxiety levels. The feature ranks users in relation to their friends, with positions like “Mercury” indicating close friends and “Uranus” representing less close connections. This system has the potential to create misunderstandings and hurt feelings when users realize their standing in a friend’s solar system.
Feedback from users has led Snapchat to reevaluate the feature, acknowledging that while it can feel good to be close to someone, it can also be upsetting to realize a lack of closeness. In response, the company has decided to disable the solar system feature by default for all users, with the option for Snapchat+ subscribers to enable it if they so choose.
While some may view this move as a positive step, others argue that it is merely a surface-level solution to a deeper issue. The solar system feature, along with other ranking systems like “Best Friends” and “Streaks,” was designed to provide users with insight into their friendships and encourage engagement on the platform.
Critics have raised concerns about the addictive nature of these features and their potential to negatively impact users’ mental health. Despite Snap’s efforts to address these issues, questions remain about the company’s role in perpetuating harmful behaviors among young people.
Moving forward, Snapchat will need to carefully consider the implications of its features and prioritize the well-being of its users. By balancing the desire for engagement with the need for responsible platform management, Snapchat can work towards creating a safer and more positive environment for its community.