Snapchat, known for its spontaneous photo sharing and ephemeral messaging, has transformed digital communication for millions. In an effort to cater to its most dedicated users, Snapchat introduced a premium subscription service called Snapchat Plus. This subscription unlocks exclusive features and customization tools that aren’t available to regular users. But here’s the catch — Snapchat doesn’t make it obvious who’s using the premium service. So, how can you tell if someone has Snapchat Plus?
In this article, we’ll explore the different methods, signs, and indicators that can help you figure out whether someone is using Snapchat Plus. From subtle design cues to exclusive features, we’ll uncover everything you need to know to make an educated guess.
What Is Snapchat Plus?
Snapchat Plus is a paid subscription service launched in mid-2022 by Snap Inc. It is designed for power users who want more control, enhanced features, and early access to experimental tools. The service typically costs around $3.99/month (pricing may vary by country), and it’s continuously being updated with new perks.
Snapchat Plus is not necessary for casual users, but for those who spend a lot of time on the app, it adds a layer of personalization and interactivity. Key features include custom app icons, pinning friends, Bitmoji backgrounds, and more. Understanding what comes with Snapchat Plus is crucial to recognizing when someone might be using it.
Why Would Someone Subscribe to Snapchat Plus?
Before identifying Snapchat Plus users, it’s important to understand the appeal behind the service. Here are some reasons someone might upgrade:
- Customization: Change app icons and use custom Bitmoji backgrounds.
- Insight: See who rewatched your story or track best friends via the Friend Solar System.
- Priority Access: Get features before they roll out to the public.
- Status Symbols: Features like badges and unique emojis allow users to stand out.
Knowing these incentives can give you context when spotting Plus users — particularly those who like showing off their premium status.
The Snapchat+ Badge: A Telltale Sign
One of the easiest ways to tell if someone has Snapchat Plus is by spotting the Snapchat+ badge. This is a white star inside a black circle that appears next to their display name. It’s a subtle but clear indicator of a Plus subscription.
However, there’s a caveat: this badge is optional. Snapchat allows users to toggle the visibility of the badge in their settings. So, while its presence confirms someone is a subscriber, its absence doesn’t guarantee that they aren’t.
To look for the badge:
- Open your chat or friend list.
- Locate the user’s display name.
- Look to the right for a white star in a black circle.
Check the Duration of Their Stories
Another indicator of Snapchat Plus is the extended story duration. Standard users can keep their stories visible for up to 24 hours. Snapchat Plus subscribers, on the other hand, can extend story visibility for up to 7 days.
If you frequently see someone’s story lingering for more than a day, they are likely a subscriber. This is one of the more observable features of Snapchat Plus, as it impacts content visibility and duration.
Keep in mind:
- This feature is best checked over time.
- Users can still choose the standard 24-hour duration even if they have Snapchat Plus.
Unique Bitmoji Backgrounds and Customization
Snapchat Plus unlocks several aesthetic enhancements, including custom Bitmoji backgrounds. These include everything from starry galaxies and sunsets to AI-generated designs. If someone’s Bitmoji profile stands out with a vibrant or uncommon background, it’s a strong clue that they’re using the premium service.
Here’s how to check:
- Go to a user’s profile.
- Examine their Bitmoji background.
- If it’s flashy or unusual, they may have Snapchat Plus.
You can compare what you see with the free background options on your own profile to spot the difference.
Post-View Emojis: An Exclusive Touch
The post-view emoji is a subtle yet exclusive feature. It lets Snapchat Plus users choose an emoji that appears next to their name once you’ve viewed their snap. This emoji appears on your chat feed and can make their snaps feel more personalized or expressive.
For example, after viewing their snap, you might notice a small emoji (like a heart or star) next to their name in your inbox. Only Snapchat Plus subscribers can enable this feature, so it’s a giveaway if you see it.
While subtle, this feature can only be noticed if you’re regularly snapping with that user.
Chat Customization and Unique Wallpapers
Snapchat Plus includes chat wallpaper customization, letting users personalize each conversation with different backgrounds. These wallpapers can be star-themed, gradient-colored, or seasonal.
When chatting with someone:
- If you notice a wallpaper that you don’t have access to,
- Or if the background is noticeably different from standard chat screens,
They’re likely using Snapchat Plus. Wallpapers are also marked with a premium (star) icon in the customization menu — so users can flaunt them easily.
Replay Count Notifications
A major Plus feature is the ability to see how many times a snap has been replayed — and by whom. If you send a snap and get multiple replay notifications, it’s a clear sign that the recipient is using Snapchat Plus.
Note that this works both ways:
- Regular users can only replay once.
- Plus users can replay snaps twice (and view this info on their own stories).
If someone seems to know how often you viewed their content, they’re probably taking advantage of this insight.
Friend Solar System: A Feature Found Only in Plus
The Friend Solar System is one of the most distinctive Snapchat Plus features. It represents your top friends as planets in a solar system, with your closest friend labeled as “Mercury,” the second closest as “Venus,” and so on.
Only Snapchat Plus users can access this playful friendship ranking. If someone shares screenshots or references being “your Mercury,” they are absolutely using the premium service.
Although this feature is private to the user, they might bring it up in conversation or show it off in snaps.
Different App Icon on Home Screen
Snapchat Plus lets users change the app icon on their phone’s home screen. There are dozens of designs — from old-school Snapchat logos to neon variations. If you notice someone with a non-default Snapchat icon, they likely have Snapchat Plus.
This one is harder to spot unless:
- You see their phone screen.
- They share a screenshot that includes the custom icon.
Still, it’s another subtle visual cue.
What You Can’t See: Hidden Features and Settings
It’s important to understand that many Snapchat Plus features are internal and won’t be visible unless the user shows them to you. These include:
- Ghost Trails (map-based tracking of friends)
- Story Boost (increasing visibility of their story)
- Priority Replies (their replies stand out to influencers or creators)
Unless you’re directly involved or the user demonstrates the feature, these remain invisible. That said, recognizing these invisible perks helps you understand how Snapchat Plus enhances the user experience.
Final Thoughts: Confirming Snapchat Plus Usage
While Snapchat doesn’t officially disclose who’s using Plus, the signs are there if you know what to look for. From the Snapchat+ badge and custom Bitmoji backgrounds to chat wallpapers and post-view emojis, many small features combine to indicate someone has access to Snapchat’s premium tier.
To recap, here are your best clues:
- Snapchat+ Badge
- Extended Story Durations
- Unique Bitmoji and Wallpapers
- Replay Notifications
- Post-view Emojis
- Friend Solar System references
- Custom App Icons
If someone exhibits multiple signs from this list, you can reasonably conclude they’re using Snapchat Plus. Just remember: these observations are best made casually and respectfully. Snapchat is meant to be fun, and everyone’s experience is personal.
