Snapchat Ends 9 Years of Free Memories Storage—Users Are Furious

Snapchat has just dropped a shocking update to its Memories feature, and users aren’t taking it lightly. The unlimited free storage that has existed since 2016 is now capped at just 5GB. Across the internet, users are venting their frustration with memes, tweets, and posts, as loyal Snapchatters may now have to pay to preserve their memories.

Free Users Take a Hit

Snap says that the “majority of users” don’t exceed the 5GB limit, but for heavy users, this is a major blow. Now, anyone who wants to save more will need a subscription. Critics warn that this move sets a dangerous precedent: if Snapchat can put personal memories behind a paywall, other platforms may follow suit.

Paid Plans Stir Controversy

Snapchat introduced three subscription tiers:

• Basic Memories Storage Plan: $1.99/month for 100GB

• Snapchat+: $3.99/month for 250GB

• Platinum Tier: $15.99/month for 5TB

While Snap markets these plans as affordable solutions, many users see them as a monetization strategy that erodes trust. Young users, who make up Snapchat’s core audience, may find it difficult to justify the extra expense, potentially making the platform less appealing.

Transition Plan and Backlash

Snap has announced a one-year temporary storage grace for users already exceeding 5GB. But users worry that the subscription will be unavoidable once the grace period ends. Across social media, memes, jokes, and complaints are spreading rapidly, hinting at a PR headache for Snapchat.

Snapchat’s Paid Push

This update is part of Snap’s broader move toward paid services. Earlier this year, the company launched Lens+, a $9/month subscription for advanced AR features. However, putting Memories behind a paywall is an emotional hit, as these photos and videos aren’t just digital content—they are personal milestones and cherished memories.

Pakistani Users React

In Pakistan, users have flooded Twitter and Facebook with complaints, saying:

• “Now memories also come with a price tag?”

• “Snapchat just put our childhood memories for ransom.”

• “5GB? My storage is already 50GB full—what now?”

Hashtags like #SnapchatPaywall and #ByeByeMemories are trending, showing that Pakistani users are just as frustrated and upset by the move.

Snapchat has shifted 9 years of free Memories storage behind a paywall, a bold move that targets users’ emotions directly. Now, it remains to be seen whether the loyal user base will accept subscriptions or if this update will erode trust and engagement.

One thing is clear: Snapchat has crossed a line, and the social media backlash is likely to last for months.