Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel says ‘social media is dead’ in leaked memo

In a leaked memo, Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel has boldly declared the death of social media, sparking waves of speculation and debate within the tech and social networking spheres. Spiegel’s internal communication, dated 2024, has raised eyebrows as he questions the very essence of social media platforms, their impact on society, and suggests a need for a fundamental shift in approach. Spiegel’s memo begins by asserting that traditional social media is essentially on life support. He contends that the endless pursuit of metrics like “likes” and “shares” has led to a toxic environment, fostering a culture of comparison and validation-seeking behavior. According to Spiegel, this has deviated from the initial vision of connecting people and sharing authentic moments.

Snapchat’s CEO advocates for a paradigm shift, emphasizing the importance of digital spaces that prioritize meaningful and personal connections over popularity contests. He introduces the concept of the “social media spiral of death,” where platforms, in their pursuit of engagement, inadvertently contribute to a negative feedback loop, compromising user well-being and the overall quality of online interactions. Spiegel’s vision for the future involves reimagining social media platforms to be more user-centric, fostering genuine connections and well-being. He proposes a move away from the metrics-centric approach and towards fostering meaningful conversations, creativity, and shared experiences. The memo reflects a growing awareness among tech leaders about the potential harms associated with current social media dynamics.

The leaked communication has ignited discussions about the role and responsibility of social media platforms in shaping user behavior. Critics argue that Spiegel’s critique conveniently comes as Snapchat faces its own challenges in the competitive social media landscape, with platforms like TikTok gaining popularity. As the leaked memo continues to circulate online, it prompts reflection on the evolving landscape of social media and the potential for a redefinition of the industry’s purpose. Whether Spiegel’s bold proclamation will catalyze tangible changes in how social media platforms operate remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds fuel to the ongoing discourse about the future of digital interactions and their impact on society. There must be something to do with Snapchat’s struggle in front of Instagram as well.