This message will self-destruct in five seconds: Snapchat is set to offer disappearing ads
Photo messaging app Snapchat could soon be offering users more than just perishable pictures and videos, according to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).
In a move that could actually begin to make the three-year old company some money, Snapchat has been in talks with a host of media companies and advertisers about offering disappearing news and ads.
According to those in the know, Snapchat Discovery will let users read news watch ads just like they see photos and videos from their friends by holding their finger on the screen until it vanishes. The service could be out as soon as November.
Snapchat Discovery could give the company's 24-year old chief executive Evan Spiegal a major opportunity to generate revenue and show off its value to potential investors. The new service will be of particular interest to advertisers looking to market to a younger, more tech-savvy audience.
WSJ reported British media giant MailOnline was one of the 12 content providers involved in the discussions. With an estimated 27 million users on iOS and Android devices, and up to 700 million snaps being sent each day, the California-based company is a tempting prospect for advertisers and media moguls alike.
Last year, Snapchat raised funding at a valuation north of $2bn and rejected a $3bn acquisition offer from Facebook.