People are showing renewed interest in Snapchat experiences reminiscent of 2016, including popular features such as dog ear and flower crown filters, lip kits, and low-fi selfies. This trend is being seen across various platforms, with users expressing a preference for the raw and playful aspects that have long defined Snapchat.
In response to this resurgence, Snapchat has introduced a special 2016 Flashback feature. The company says this will make it easier for users to revisit moments, Lenses, and cultural elements from a decade ago.
Celebrities, content creators, and everyday users are participating by sharing throwbacks using some of Snapchat’s most iconic Lenses. According to the company, videos declaring “Snapchat is in” for 2026 are gaining significant attention online. The company believes this signals more than just nostalgia but marks a wider cultural shift.
The appeal of these retro features is not limited to social media posts. It also reflects changes in how people use the platform. There is an increased desire for digital experiences that prioritize spontaneity and unpolished stories over curated or performative content.
A spokesperson for Snapchat said: “The current craving for 2016 isn’t just about what’s trending. It reflects a desire to return to digital experiences that offer something more human: spontaneity, carefree sharing, and unpolished Stories that feel intimate rather than performative.”
The company maintains that as culture cycles back to earlier trends, its platform continues to be known for encouraging authentic sharing.
