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Snapchat introduces universal search feature
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Snapchat has launched a universal search feature for Android and iOS users, which allows people to easily find friends and groups and discover publishers through a search bar accessible at the top of the app. (Shutterstock.com/Dean Drobot)
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napchat has launched a universal search feature for Android and iOS users, which allows people to easily find friends and groups and discover publishers through a search bar accessible at the top of the app.
The launch of the feature was initially prompted by growing criticism from Snapchat users who encountered difficulties in gaining new followers. Users usually had to acquire followers by promoting their username (or Snapcode) through other social-media platforms, or even by adding everyone in hopes of getting followed back.
(Read also: More Indonesians using Snapchat, leaving Twitter: Survey)
Since Snapchat acquired the mobile search startup Vurb last year for US$110 million, as reported by TheNextWeb.com, many expect such features would be found in the image messaging app.
Said to be heading for an Initial Public Offering in 2017, the changes should boost Snapchat’s revenue and lure in new followers who were initially confused by the app’s old search engine.
However, Snapchat should keep a look out on Instagram, as their “stories” have just hit 150 million users, which is the same number that Snapchat is aiming for. The new universal search “must demonstrate potential money-makers beyond what Instagram has copied,” said TechCrunch. (mra/kes)
