To avoid losing their digital memories, users are being warned to upgrade to more expensive plans, as the app is discontinuing unlimited cloud storage for saved Snaps.

Almost ten years after launching its Memories feature, the social media app has ended unlimited cloud space for saved Snaps and is now capping free storage at 5GB. According to the company, users who use more than 5GB will have to either export their Memories or sign up for one of its new paid storage plans. Snapchat stated that the base plan will provide 100 GB of storage for $1.99 per month in an email to TechCrunch. Up to 5TB of storage will be available to Snapchat Platinum users on the $15.99 plan, while 250GB will be available to Snapchat+ subscribers who currently pay $3.99 per month.

Only the oldest Snaps will remain after the storage limit is reached, and Snapchat will automatically remove the most recent ones for users who choose not to upgrade. There will be a 12-month grace period for users to keep extra memories before they are deleted. Many users have started exporting their memories manually as a result of the change, instead of using a paid plan. Users can save batches of up to 100 images or videos at once straight to their camera roll using Snapchat's export feature, though this can take a while for large collections.

The "Download My Data" option in the app's settings allows users to download their complete Memories archive as an alternative. This method offers a one-time backup solution without requiring a subscription by sending a .zip file via email that contains all selected Snaps and data.

The new storage plan is part of Snapchat's larger strategy to make money off of well-liked but long-free features. Memories, which allows users to view previously taken photos and stories that have been privately stored within the app, has developed into one of Snapchat's most personal features since its launch in 2016. As the platform attempts to strike a balance between subscription income and user experience, it appears that even nostalgia has a cost.