Snapchat update: Chat overhaul features new stickers, GIFs, auto-play and more [VIDEO]

Snapchat has released major updates, adding new versatility to the image messaging app. Chat 2.0 aims to give Snapchatters more conventional chatting experience with new stickers, GIFs and videos.

The update, which was first reported in January, was officially launched on Tuesday for iOS and Android devices. Users are now able to add more than 200 stickers, including, of course, Snapchat’s mascot ghost. They can send multiple photos at the same time and add video and audio notes (or GIFs with sound or without sound).

With the new overhaul, the chat feature now feels more like a conventional messaging feature, like that of Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp, but with unique features. And according to early user reactions, it’s a very good thing. Snapchat’s normal chat platform didn’t allow photo-sending during video or audio call. The updated version, however, lets Snapchatters do that and more.

“Today, we’re excited to introduce Chat 2.0. You can start by sending a few chats, and when your friend shows up, start talking or video chatting instantly with one tap. Your friend can simply listen if you want to sing them a song, or watch if you have a new puppy to show them. If they aren’t there, you can quickly send an audio note to say what you mean. And sometimes, a sticker says it best :),” Snapchat wrote in a blog post.

“What we love most about the new Chat is how easily you can transition between all these ways of communicating – just like you do in person. When that’s possible, you aren’t texting, calling or video chatting… you’re just talking. We’ve been working on this redesign for a while – we can’t wait to hear what you think!”

Snapchat has also introduced the new feature Auto-Advance Stories, which allows users to view all their friends’ snaps faster. When the user finishes viewing a friend’s Story, the next Story begins automatically, no need to exit and click another username.

YouTube’s BreakTheInternet has uploaded a tutorial on the new chat update. Watch here:

YouTube/BreakTheInternet