Snapchat introduces 'Footsteps' - a new way to map your journeys

Not long ago, Snapchat reportedly rolled out an experimental feature to its Snap Map section that tracks your footsteps. It was only available to premium subscribers at its launch, but reports now say that Snapchat plans to roll out "Footsteps" to iOS users this week.

The feature makes trip documenting more fun on the app by telling you how much of a place you've covered. For example, based on your "Footsteps", it can tell you when you've explored 10% of the state or show you your footsteps all over the map and other fun little details.

Right now, if you were to activate the feature, Snapchat would use your location data saved from Memories to map out where you've been and from then on, it would use your normal location data.

How to use Snapchat's 'Footsteps' feature

• To use Footsteps, you have to be an active app user and allow access to your location.
• You'll need to disable ghost mode, although this means that your friends can see your location on Snap Map, but your Footsteps data will remain private.
• To turn off the feature, go into the app's settings > Account Actions > Map and then turn off “Save new Footsteps as my location updates on the map”.

While other social media platforms offer location-based features, none provide a tracking experience as detailed as Snapchat's 'Footsteps.' You'll likely only find location stickers on Instagram or basic location-sharing features in most other apps.

Snapchat's "Footsteps" feature represents a unique addition to the social media landscape. According to Statista, Snapchat currently has around 800 million active monthly users, making it the ninth most popular social media platform. It will be interesting to see how this feature contributes to the platform's growth and success.

So far, there's no word on when Android users can expect this feature.