Snapchat is expanding beyond its long-standing focus on private messaging with the launch of Topic Chats, a new feature designed to let users participate in public conversations around shared interests—from Formula 1 and global news to trending TV shows like Below Deck.
The feature marks a notable shift for the platform, which has historically avoided public discussion spaces. Topic Chats will now appear across the app — including Chat shortcuts, Search, Stories, and Spotlight videos — for users in Canada, New Zealand, and the United States, with a wider rollout expected later.
Privacy at the Core of Public Chats
Despite the public nature of Topic Chats, Snapchat says user privacy remains central to the experience. Profiles will stay private, and only a user’s display name will appear next to messages. Other participants are unable to tap through to view profiles, and display names cannot be used for search — limiting exposure and reducing unwanted contact.
Users will also be able to see which Topic Chats their friends have joined, helping them connect around shared interests without revealing additional personal information.
LLM-Powered Safety and Moderation
To keep conversations safe, Snapchat says it will deploy LLM technology, automated tools, and human oversight. Messages must comply with the platform’s Community Guidelines, and users can report inappropriate content. Policy violations may result in warnings or account blocks.
The company says Topic Chats were inspired by the strong engagement it has seen around public comments on Spotlight, its TikTok-style short-form video feature.
“The Snapchat community loves commenting publicly about trending topics and events,” the company noted in a blog post, adding that Topic Chats offer a dedicated space for those discussions.
A New Layer for Discovery and Engagement
Topic Chats will also recommend related Spotlight videos, creating a blended feed of conversation and content. A large yellow “Join the Chat” button will appear on eligible Stories and Spotlight posts, allowing users to enter the discussion instantly.
Messages in Topic Chats will be retained for up to five years, according to Snapchat.
With this rollout, Snapchat is joining other major platforms in building interest-based public spaces — but with a privacy-first design that aligns with its long-standing user expectations.
