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# System prepended metadata

title: Snapchat Clone Ephemeral Messaging Platform

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# Snapchat Clone Ephemeral Messaging Platform

## Objective

Develop a comprehensive Snapchat Clone Ephemeral Messaging Platform using the MERN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, Node.js) that enables users to share temporary content, communicate through disappearing messages, create augmented reality experiences, and discover location-based content. The application should provide camera-first interactions, story features, map-based discovery, avatar customization, and premium content experiences to replicate core Snapchat functionality.

## Output

Reference Website Link:
[https://www.snapchat.com/](https://www.snapchat.com/)

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### Project Requirements

**Technologies:** MongoDB, Express.js, React.js, Node.js (MERN Stack), Socket.io for real-time messaging, WebRTC for video calls, Canvas API/WebGL for filters, Mapbox for location services, WebAssembly for AR effects, Cloudinary/AWS S3 for temporary media storage

### Features to Implement

* **Disappearing Messages & Snaps:**
  Send photo/video messages with automatic deletion timers, screenshot detection, replay functionality, and ephemeral chat conversations.

* **Stories & Content Sharing:**
  24-hour story content with privacy controls, story highlights, custom story creation, and friend story viewing with engagement tracking.

* **Camera Filters & AR Effects:**
  Face filters, world lenses, augmented reality effects, custom filter creation tools, sponsored lenses, and real-time filter application.

* **Snap Map & Location Features:**
  Real-time location sharing, friend location discovery, location-based content, heat maps, and privacy controls for location visibility.

* **Bitmoji Integration & Avatars:**
  Personalized avatar creation, Bitmoji customization, avatar stickers, personalized content integration, and avatar-based interactions.

* **Spotlight & Content Discovery:**
  Public content feed, viral content discovery, trending snaps, creator monetization, and algorithm-based content recommendation.

* **Memories & Content Archive:**
  Personal content backup, memory timeline, search functionality, memory sharing, and cloud storage with organization features.

* **Premium Features & Subscriptions:**
  Snapchat+ premium features, exclusive filters, advanced privacy controls, story rewatch, and custom app icons with subscription management.

* **Friendship & Social Features:**
  Best friends lists, snap streaks, friendship profiles, mutual friends discovery, and social engagement tracking.

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### UI Enhancements

* Camera-first interface with full-screen camera view as the primary interaction point.
* Gesture-based navigation with swipe controls for stories, chat, and discovery features.
* Immersive AR filter interface with real-time face detection and effect application.
* Interactive map interface with location-based content discovery and privacy controls.
* Customizable Bitmoji integration throughout the app interface and messaging system.
* Vertical video feed for Spotlight content with TikTok-style engagement features.
* Ephemeral UI elements that match the temporary nature of content sharing.
* Mobile-optimized design with haptic feedback and smooth camera transitions.

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## Project Tasks & Expected Outcomes

| Task                                           | Expected Outcome                                                |
| ---------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Set up backend API with Node.js and Express.js | RESTful endpoints for snaps, stories, maps, and ephemeral content |
| Design MongoDB schemas with TTL collections   | Schemas for Users, Snaps, Stories, Locations, Bitmojis, Memories with auto-deletion |
| Implement ephemeral messaging system         | Disappearing message functionality with timer-based deletion and replay limits |
| Develop camera interface & media processing   | Full-screen camera with real-time filter application and media optimization |
| Build AR filters & effects system            | Face detection, filter rendering, and custom AR effect creation tools |
| Create location-based features & Snap Map    | Real-time location sharing, map interface, and location-based content discovery |
| Implement Bitmoji avatar system             | Avatar creation, customization, and integration throughout app features |
| Develop Spotlight content discovery         | Public content feed with algorithm-based recommendations and creator tools |
| Build Memories & content archiving         | Personal content backup, search, organization, and sharing capabilities |
| Create premium subscription features        | Snapchat+ functionality with exclusive features and subscription management |
| Implement friendship & social mechanics     | Best friends, streaks, friendship profiles, and social engagement tracking |
| Build mobile-first responsive UI           | Camera-centric interface with gesture navigation and AR integration |

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## MERN Concepts

| Concept                | Implementation                                             |
| ---------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------- |
| Node.js & Express.js   | Real-time APIs with ephemeral data handling and auto-deletion |
| MongoDB & Mongoose     | TTL collections for auto-expiring content and location-based queries |
| React Components       | Camera-first components with WebRTC integration and gesture controls |
| React Router           | Gesture-based navigation with swipe routing and modal overlays |
| JWT Authentication     | Secure authentication with device-specific tokens and privacy controls |
| State Management       | Real-time state for camera, location, and ephemeral content |
| Socket.io Integration  | Real-time messaging, location updates, and friend activity tracking |
| WebRTC Implementation  | Camera access, video calls, and real-time media streaming |
| Canvas API & WebGL     | AR filter rendering, face detection, and real-time image processing |
| Geolocation APIs       | Location services, map integration, and proximity-based features |
| WebAssembly Integration | High-performance AR effects and computer vision processing |
| Subscription Management | Premium feature gating, recurring billing, and exclusive content access |
| Media Processing       | Real-time image/video filters, compression, and temporary storage |
| Privacy & Security     | End-to-end encryption, screenshot detection, and granular privacy controls |

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