Snapchat spotted testing TikTok-style video swipe interface

The test is said to be focussed on only those content that is published publicly to Snapchat Discover.

Snapchat logo. (HT Tech)

Now that TikTok is banned from India and other countries are planning to do so, rival firms are doing everything they can to cash-in on the gaping hole that is left in the market. Recently, Instagram launched its ‘Reels', a similar short video service on its platform and now Snapchat is spotted testing the same TikTok-style navigation that will let you discover new content more easily. 

The test is said to be focussed on only those content that is published publicly to Snapchat Discover. It is not there for private Stories. According to a screenshot shared by a user on Twitter and retweeted by social media expert Matt Navarra, the app will show a pop-up explaining how one ca navigate the new experience.

The company has even confirmed that it is testing this interface so users can simply use the swipe gesture to move between videos. “We're always experimenting with new ways to bring immersive and engaging content to our mobile-first Snapchat community,” a spokesperson told TechCrunch.

There is a video of the update (sorry for the bad quality I record it with my phone) pic.twitter.com/gFZXlMFBBJ

— Arthur 🥰 (@artb2668) July 13, 2020

It is not for sure when this feature will be rolled out to everyone and if it will come to India or not.

However, Snapchat has been focussing on India lately. Yesterday, the firm launched ‘Here for You' in India. It is an in-app feature that provides support to Snapchatters who may be dealing with a mental health or emotional crisis. It also aims to help those who want to learn more about these issues so they can help their friends. Snapchat brings this feature to you in partnership with The Manas Foundation and Mariwala Health Initiative.