While Snapchat has built its reputation (so to speak) on ephemeral messages, there will come a time when they need to probably widen their portfolio. And they have actually been doing so by adding more and more features. Two developers were studying the Android APK of the messaging app and now they’re saying they said that they found code references that indicate they will be bringing audio notes, video and audio calls, and even a live streaming feature in the future (it rhymes!).
They found the code references in the version 9.21.1.0 that was released in December 24 last year, but obviously, the features have not been activated or else the teenage and young adult demographic of Snapchat would have been on it. But what users MaaarZ and striate found shows that pretty soon we will have what it calls “audionote” which will record just audio, although there is no indication as to the max size or length that it will allow you to record.
The ‘chat_stream_audio’ and ‘chat_incoming_video’ code indicates that it will eventually offer full screen video and audio calling as well, which will make it in direct competition with other apps that offer the same, like Skype, Google Hangouts, FB Messenger, etc. Of course Snapchat has a sort of similar video calling feature introduced two years ago, but you have to hold down the screen to share the video feed with another person.
Another rumored feature is lifestream capability, which may be quite similar to what Periscope and Meerkat have been doing, and Facebook as well (although that is limited to verified celebrities and personalities only). If Snapchat will indeed launch these features in the next update, it will be a departure from the ephemeral content. But it also means they’re willing to explore and experiment to see what else the market will play along with. Let’s wait and see if this will click or will actually happen.
VIA: 9 to 5 Google
