The universal search bar is available at the top of the app

Jan 14, 2017 10:23 GMT  ·  By

Snapchat has just announced that it launched a new and much-needed feature for finding friends, groups and stories in a much faster way. The new universal search feature has already started rolling out to some Android users and will reach iOS users soon enough.

The new universal search bar is located at the top of the app, accessible from many screens so users can find content in a very fast and convenient way. The search bar was designed in such a way that it would allow users to access a friend’s message thread or story much faster. In an interview with TechCrunch, Snapchat mentioned that the new interface focuses on efficiency and speed.

Previously, Snapchat offered a fractured search interface with content spread in three different places and messages, accounts or stories arranged into boxes. This new search feature would benefit brands and businesses as well, as Snapchat could potentially charge advertisers to place sponsored content at the top of the search results list.

The new search feature allows you to access profiles and find Discover channels

The new search bar allows users to jump to their own profile by tapping the Bitmoji on the left. You can start a chat with friends after tapping on their auto-suggest card or search result. Moreover, if you tap on their story thumbnail, you can watch it full screen.

Moreover, if you tap on someone’s card, the app displays their mini profile with information and content to check out. Users can also search for specific Discover channels or find Our Stories content.

Snapchat has only recently added navigation buttons, as the company has started to address any issues that users might have with the interface, which can be quite confusing at times. The new search universal will surely streamline the user experience and allow them to find stories faster and connect with friends in a much easier way.