Snap Inc. has introduced a new feature called Home Safe, which allows Snapchat users to notify friends when they have returned home after being out. The feature is intended to help users provide reassurance to close friends or family members about their safety.
Home Safe works by sending an alert to a friend the user already shares their location with on Snapchat. The notification is sent only once and then turns off automatically. According to Snap Inc., this system is designed with both safety and privacy in mind. Location sharing on Snap Map remains off by default, so users must choose to share their location before anyone can receive a Home Safe alert.
The company states that the feature can be useful in situations such as returning from social events or trips, offering an easy way for users to let someone know they have arrived safely.
“Home Safe alerts are designed with safety and privacy in mind: Alerts can only be sent to friends you already share your location with, and the notification goes out only once, then shuts off automatically. As always, location sharing on Snap Map is off by default, so no one can see your location or receive a Home Safe alert unless you proactively choose to share it,” the company said in its announcement.
The new tool is available starting today for Snapchatters who want an added layer of communication regarding their whereabouts.
