<blockquote><i class="fas fa-quote-left"></i><i>The Stylist</i> wrote:<br><p>Here you can find our release notes which will be updated frequently.</p> <p> </p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Nov 13, 2024 - v1.76.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've revamped the <strong>frequently asked questions (FAQ)</strong> to make finding answers easier than ever.<br /><em>You've got questions. We've got answers.</em><br /><br />Now, with a streamlined layout and improved keyword search, you can quickly locate explanations for the topics you’re curious about. Each section is designed to help you find the information you need without any hassle.<br /><br />Have a look at: <a title="https://www.snailmailfriends.com/frequently-asked-questions" href="frequently-asked-questions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/frequently-asked-questions</a></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 12, 2024 - v1.75.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're excited to introduce <strong>Swap Credits</strong>, offering more flexibility for your snail mailing experience! You can now purchase credits that never expire, allowing you to send personal or random swaps, or join events, without the need for a subscription plan. This is perfect for members who want to explore our platform, participate in regular events, or stay active without the pressure of a fixed-term commitment. Buy as many credits as you need and enjoy swapping on your own terms!<br /><br />More information can be found <a href="swap-credits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 22, 2024 - v1.74.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are excited to announce that our new and improved menu is now live! Thank you to all the members who filled out our questionnaire and shared your valuable feedback. Your insights have been instrumental in enhancing your experience on Snail Mail Friends.</p> <p>Here’s what you can look forward to with our new menu:</p> <p><strong>Improved navigation:</strong> The new layout makes it easier for you to find what you’re looking for, ensuring a more user-friendly experience.<br /><br /><strong>Quick access links:</strong> Add your 8 favorite links within the website for quick access to your most-visited pages. This feature allows you to personalize your navigation, making it faster to reach your preferred content.<br /><br /><strong>Received a swap:</strong> This feature is now called 'Register received swap' and placed in the main menu across all systems in the swap tracker menu under incoming swaps. You can also make 'register received swap' a quick access link.<br /><br /><strong>Swaps:</strong> It's now possible to request and create a swap directly from the menu, simplifying the process and improving accessibility.<br /><br /><strong>Better managed notifications:</strong> Read message notifications can now be auto-removed, keeping your notification panel clean and organized. Users have the option to turn on this feature according to their preference. Additionally, it has been made easier to see when you have a new notification, ensuring you never miss an important update.<br /><br />We receive many requests and suggestions from our community. While we can't implement every idea, we deeply appreciate your input, no matter how big or small. Implementing improvements takes time and resources, and we hope you'll find the new menu enhances your experience on our site. Enjoy exploring the new features!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 17, 2024 - v1.73.3</strong></span></p> <p>Due to a bug, notifications were not being sent for Round Robin rounds, and it was not being recorded if a Round Robin had not been received after the shipped threshold date. As a result, it was not possible to later mark the Round Robin as LOST or to prompt participants to start a new Round Robin for the owner of the lost swap. This issue has been resolved.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 09, 2024 - v1.73.2</strong></span></p> <p>We fixed a bug on the Getting Started page where the display of 'Complete Your Profile' was not rendering correctly. After resolving the issue, the prompt now displays accurately as intended. </p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 24, 2024 - v1.73.1</strong></span></p> <p>We have fixed a small bug where duplicate emails were being sent to both the creator of a Round Robin event and the participants who had joined. This issue has now been resolved, ensuring that notifications are correctly directed to the appropriate recipients based on their roles within the event.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Dec 27, 2023 - v1.73</strong></span></p> <p>We've made significant enhancements to our incoming and outgoing swap processes.</p> <p>For incoming swaps, we're introducing an new feature. If a swap becomes overdue, with more than 7 days passed since the scheduled shipping date, you now have the capability to send a friendly reminder to your swap partner. This feature empowers you to prompt your swap partner to take action and ensure the successful completion of the swap.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ef68e6e93f6d980fc892e2a37348f68a.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We've also introduced an additional feature for incoming swaps in cases where your swap partner hasn't responded or taken any action.<br /><br />For swaps scheduled on or after [shipping date], if more than 7 days have elapsed since the last reminder was sent, and the swap is still ongoing, you now have the option to hide it. Choosing this option will remove the swap from your active incoming list for organizational purposes. However, you can still mark it as received if it arrives later on. Please note that this option will result in a 'Failed to Send +1' note on your swap partner's profile, indicating that the swap was not completed as scheduled. You can still access and move inactive incoming swaps back to your active list if needed.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/f8ce8f533f31461118082751d96e4f2f.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This will lead to a Failed to Send +1 on their profile. <br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fd4872990a9e97590df662a6d19e6b37.png" alt="" /><br /><br />Now for the outgoing swaps. We've introduced a new feature to help you manage your swaps more effectively. If the shipping date for a swap was over 45 days ago and your swap partner has not yet received it, you now have the option to send them a reminder. This reminder encourages your swap partner to take action and inquire about the status of the swap. Additionally, you can receive the swap through our system or send a private message to initiate contact with your swap partner. We believe this feature will enhance your overall swap experience by facilitating communication and timely resolution for any delayed swaps.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ef2964bd4ddf0d0ae6f0c993d23d5a95.png" alt="" /></p> <p>After sending the reminder, if 14 days pass and the situation remains unresolved, you will have two additional options:<br /><br /><strong>Hide from your active outgoing list:</strong> You can hide the swap from your active outgoing list for organizational purposes to keep it clear. However, you can still mark it as received when it arrives later on. Sometimes, especially for swaps from distant countries, delivery can take longer.<br /><br /><strong>Recreate the swap:</strong> The second option is to recreate the swap and send it once more. You are in control of whether you want to recreate and resend the swap to your swap partner. When you use this option, you reset the swap from scratch so you can follow the steps again.<br /><br />We believe these additional options will provide you with more flexibility and control over your swaps, ensuring a smoother and more reliable swap experience.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/0afc5095475dcb39402cef11baff1c02.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Recreating the swap will reset it, indicating that it's a resend. You can then recreate your swap once again, and the new shipping date will be set to 14 days from the moment you hit the 'Recreate Swap' button. Proceed with the normal steps from there.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fc1f0397fde70d02b837695970f4f1b1.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Dec 18, 2023 - v1.72.2</strong></span></p> <p>We've fixed a problem where if you reloaded the page after making an event, it would accidentally make the same event again. Now, this issue is solved, so you can refresh the page without worrying about creating duplicate events.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Dec 17, 2023 - v1.72.1</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. </strong>We've fixed a bug in our Round Robin allocation system that previously led to the process halting midway when a location name was missing. This issue arose because our system relies on a database of coordinates to calculate distances between swaps. Without these coordinates, the script was unable to continue. Now, if a location name is missing from our database, the system seamlessly switches to the nearest town or city already chosen by the user, using their coordinates to ensure uninterrupted operation and precise distance calculations for effective pairing.</p> <p><strong>b.</strong> We've made some updates to the swap progress tracking within the events. Now, not only can you see when your item has been shipped, complete with the shipment date, but we've also introduced a fifth status option: 'Received.' This new feature allows you to view the 'Received' status along with the exact date your item was delivered, giving you a clearer and more detailed overview of your swap's journey.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/56328d239b6901ab4115a5c81c392328.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Dec 16, 2023 - v1.72.0</span></strong></p> <p>We have updated our FAQ page, incorporating both content revisions and a new layout design to enhance your experience. For more information and to view the improvements, please visit our updated page at <a href="faq" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/faq</a></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Nov 12, 2023 - v1.71.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. Likes and dislikes on register page</strong></p> <p>Initiate your preferences from the start! We've incorporated the likes and dislikes option directly onto the registration page, as it is now a required step. Following registration completion, dive into your profile to offer detailed descriptions, allowing you to go beyond simple tags and express your likes and dislikes in full text. Customize your Snail Mail experience to truly capture and reflect your unique preferences!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/94ee61755c53c6aef6d1144a930ad9da.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><strong>b. Quick Glance: Your sent Round Robin rounds</strong></p> <p>We've added a quick glance inside your Round Robin dashboard to stay in the loop on what Round Robins you've already sent and which are still waiting to be sent, requested by a member.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/780c65d220bb6bbc951319e3cf15bd8b.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><strong>c. Quick Glance: Your sent Round Robin rounds</strong></p> <p>From now on you can select minimal profile points directly from our members page (<a href="our-members?view=all&sorting=name&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/our-members?view=all&sorting=name&page=1</a>)<br /><br /><em>*Enhancing your profile by earning points is essential for making the most out of our Snail Mails and event features.</em></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/bd5b2108cdca83685ec2d7b062679ff6.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><strong>d. Report Artwork</strong></p> <p>We've introduced a new feature for reporting artwork inside the <a href="art-gallery?view=all&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Art Gallery</a>, covering concerns such as copyright infringement, inappropriate content, private Information, plagiarism, spam, and more. Simply click on the small menu icon below the artwork, then select "Report This Artwork". Choose a reason that best fits your concern and submit it instantly.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/c24ee39dd89d9a8b78b9e5109c26ca52.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 16, 2023 - v1.70.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've enhanced your login experience! Now, if you forget your username, simply enter your email address and date of birth. If the provided information matches our records, we'll promptly send you an email containing your username. Effortlessly regain access to your account and stay securely connected with our updated features!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e57b67583d83614f3e4732902b3fe50f.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 15, 2023 - v1.69.0</strong></span></p> <p>New! Introducing the <strong>Round Robin feature</strong> – A burst of creativity:<br />Hold onto your hats because we're introducing our biggest feature since the launch of Snail Mail Friends: Round Robin! While the concept has been around for a while, Snail Mail Friends is proud to be the only website that helps hosts and participants keep track of the rounds. Imagine a shared art journal traveling from one artist to another, each page a new canvas waiting to be adorned. As it journeys through creative hands, it transforms into a masterpiece infused with diverse styles, techniques, and ideas. It's not just a journal; it's a collective artwork, a testament to the beauty of collaboration. </p> <p>Please give this new Roun Robin feature a go, it's our biggest update since the launch of our website!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/4b8605a7450cf1bf9fdde19711e280dc.png" alt="" /></p> <p>More information can be found here: <a href="introduction-to-a-round-robin" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/introduction-to-a-round-robin</a></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 06, 2023 - v1.68.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've revamped our login page to match the fresh style of our register page.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/20361aa4e4e9f99ef092d27653475d4f.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 04, 2023 - v1.67.0<br /><br /></strong></span><strong>Revamped Register Page!</strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><br /></strong></span></p> <p>We've given our register page a fresh makeover! Now, it's not just a registration page; it's an experience. We've enhanced the design, making it visually appealing and incredibly user-friendly.</p> <p>What's new? We've revamped the layout, giving it a modern and polished look. Finding your way around is now easier with clear, simple, and intuitive navigation that guides you seamlessly through the process. Filling out the details is a breeze with our improved interface — hassle-free and designed with you in mind.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fce17aaace664b6c97570a7d63d9b015.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Happy register!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 16, 2023 - v1.66.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've just enhanced our "<a href="swap-received" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Received a swap</a>" page.<br />We've added a rating overview for each swap and personal ratings, making it even more user-friendly. Now, it's easier than ever to share and write your feedback.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/836aeeb61cf0d5d3b244e411e1f5f377.png" alt="" /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e2b7d7accf89724969605a0ee5d134d3.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 11, 2023 - v1.65.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're thrilled to bring you a new feature for event creators on our platform, inspired by valuable input from our community. We heard from some of our members who wanted to create an event but faced a hurdle because they didn't have an image or photo ready to use.</p> <p>Now, when you create a new event, you can select from our default event images and choose your swap image. You can always upload your unique swap event image to make your event stand out. In addition, we've added a selection of default event images that you can opt for if you don't have an image of your own. Whether you want to showcase your creativity with a custom image or prefer the convenience of our default event images, the choice is entirely yours! We encourage you to explore both options and select the one that best suits your event. We hope this new feature enhances your experience. </p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/6b6d0f89cd1e7a1a0f2cee0e9dbf40cd.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Over time, we will continue to enhance our default image library by adding more options to provide even greater variety for your events.<br /><br />Happy event planning! </p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 10, 2023 - v1.64.1</strong></span></p> <ul> <li><em>Bug fix</em>: Fixed an issue with displaying special characters, ensuring correct rendering and improved text clarity.</li> <li><em>Bug fix</em>: Resolved a critical issue causing an uncaught mysqli_sql_exception error when denying an angel's request for a swap.</li> <li><em>Enhancement</em>: Implemented a check that prevents users from joining an event when they have two or more swaps 14 days overdue or older, enhancing event participation management.</li> </ul> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 07, 2023 - v1.64.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've refined the <em>Request a Random Swap</em>, <em>Request a Random Postcard</em>, and <em>Send a One-Way Random Postcard</em> random selection features. While they worked before, we've now made them even better!</p> <p>Now, every member who signs up will have a fair shot at being chosen unexpectedly. We've also enhanced fairness by considering who has been randomly selected before. This improvement helps resolve the issue where (random) members were sometimes chosen by our system twice in a row. If all members have already been chosen, we automatically restart it! This means you can still be selected multiple times, but it's now a fairer system that ensures everyone gets their turn. Enjoy more diverse interactions!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 06, 2023 - v1.63.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've introduced a new feature to enhance fair usage and prevent abuse. Now, users can change their country setting only once every 60 days. This update ensures that users participate in events within their region, promoting a fair and authentic experience. </p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/c2d3695ce34c900958fe5780466bc283.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 27, 2023 - v1.62.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. Calendar</strong></p> <p>We're excited to introduce an update to our calendar feature at <a href="calendar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/calendar</a>. When you explore the calendar, you'll notice significant new enhancements that make planning your snail mail projects easier.</p> <p>The standout change? We've refined the display so that only events you still need to join will appear. This means you get a quick and precise snapshot of the upcoming events that are available for you to participate in. No more sifting through events you're already part of! This new approach helps you track what's on the horizon and how much time you have left to sign up.</p> <p>We've also made these upcoming events distinct by giving them a soothing purple color. This way, they stand out without causing confusion with events already in progress. Additionally, we've added a subtle icon for a touch of visual flair.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/875723b2dc9304d931175302c7af8a07.png" alt="" /></p> <p>But that's not all! Once you've joined an event, it will automatically disappear from your calendar. This keeps it clean and focused on what's relevant to you. Even if you're considering an event but have yet to decide, it will still be there for your reference.</p> <p>Are you curious to explore this updated feature? Click on an event, and you'll be seamlessly taken to the details, making it a breeze to learn more and decide whether it's the right fit for you.</p> <p>We're dedicated to making your Snail Mail experience more enjoyable and streamlined. Give the revamped calendar a try, and we'd love to hear your feedback. Your input helps us refine and enhance our platform to suit your needs best. Happy swapping!</p> <p><br /><strong>b. Art Gallery</strong></p> <p>We're thrilled to share another enhancement – this time, it's all about improving your experience in the art gallery.</p> <p>We are introducing our revamped system for your artwork within the gallery. Your journey as an artist is about to get even more exciting!</p> <p>In the past, you might have received individual emails when your artwork garnered five likes. But we understand that creativity can spark quite a whirlwind of admiration, and sometimes, those likes can stack up by receiving multiple emails daily. That's why we've made a change – now, the milestone for receiving emails is set at ten likes. Moreover, we're bundling those likes into a single weekly email. Suppose your artwork has received more than ten likes within a week. In that case, you'll get a consolidated email highlighting your appreciation for your creations.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/76ceb670cbfabb0e0338caeb3c44815c.png" alt="" /></p> <p>And the best part? We've made it easier than ever to keep track of the love your artwork is receiving. You'll find a link in the email directly to your loved artwork. It's a fantastic way to see which pieces resonate with the community.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 23, 2023 - v1.61.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've given our dashboard a fresh new look! It's now more user-friendly and visually appealing, making navigating through your Snail Mail experience more accessible than ever.</p> <p>The most exciting part? We've introduced a fantastic new feature that we think you'll love – the ability to re-order your dashboard items. You can now arrange the things on your dashboard according to your preferences. Whether you want your Outgoing Snail Mails at the top, your Statistics, or even your Activities is up to you.</p> <p>Our brand-new 'Drag and Drop to Reorder' functionality makes customizing your dashboard a breeze. No more static layouts! Just click, hold, drag, and release the dashboard items exactly where you want them. It's an intuitive and seamless process that empowers you to create a personalized dashboard that reflects your Snail Mail journey.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/68566a1826bc1b7d0d248a4ded86feb9.png" alt="" /></p> <p><br />We've also added three new pages. Directly from your Dashboard, you can easily access all your sent and received swaps and a page displaying all the events you've created. This means you'll find everything you need on a single page, regardless of whether it's in your incoming/outgoing swap tracker or your archive.</p> <p>Additionally, we've incorporated a sorting feature that empowers you to arrange items from the oldest to the newest or vice versa, placing you in control of how you navigate your content.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/7ff02b9e414a6aaae75965ddf48928ab.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Ready to give it a shot? Head over to <a href="my-profile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-profile</a>, then click on "<strong>My Dashboard</strong>" to edit the looks of your dashboard. <br /><br />You can access the enhanced dashboard experience by visiting <a href="my-dashboard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-dashboard</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 22, 2023 - v1.60.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're excited to announce a significant enhancement to our address system, designed to ensure a consistent and accurate address layout for all users. We've observed that some addresses needed to include essential information, leading to potential delivery issues. We've implemented a comprehensive update guaranteeing a uniform and correct address presentation to address this.<br /><br /></p> <p><strong>What's New:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Country-specific Address Formats:</strong> The new system tailors the address format according to the selected country. For instance, if you choose the United States, you can select one of the 50 states. Similarly, you can pick a province for Canada, and Australia is supported by its distinct states.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Automatic Layout Detection:</strong> Our system intelligently detects the country you've selected and adjusts the address layout automatically. This ensures that addresses are presented in the correct order based on the conventions of each country.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Complete Addresses:</strong> We've introduced mandatory address fields to ensure that all necessary components of an address are provided. This includes recipient names, street addresses, cities, states/provinces, and postal codes.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Enhanced City Selection:</strong> We've given you the ability to choose a city that isn't included in our database. Our system detects if you've chosen a city from the existing list or added your own. However, when you've added your city, we'll guide you to select the nearest city from our already listed database. This is crucial because we store the coordinates of every city, enabling precise distance calculations for swaps with your partner. This additional step enhances the overall experience by ensuring accurate location-based matches for your swaps.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Real-time Address Preview:</strong> To offer an improved experience, we've added a real-time address preview. This lets you see precisely how your address will appear to your swap partner. Please make sure to review and modify any details before finalizing.<br /><br /></li> </ul> <p><strong>Seamless Transition:</strong> We're pleased to inform you that we've already transferred all existing addresses to our new address system. This ensures that your previous address data is fully compatible with the enhanced layout. You can expect a more streamlined and accurate address experience, whether sending or receiving swaps.<br /><br /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/2d774a2208be9949d3ff63f588f9d8a7.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This update will significantly enhance the accuracy and reliability of address information, ensuring successful and smooth exchanges between community members.<br /><br />To access your address details, visit <a href="my-profile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-profile</a> and select the "<em>Location & Address</em>" tab. If needed, you can also make changes to your information there.<br /><br />Happy swapping!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 19, 2023 - v1.59.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're introducing a subtle yet visually pleasing change to the Shipping Address display inside your swap details page. You'll notice a refined look that adds a touch of elegance instead of just plain text.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e991a4276801161b6ea38a248bd49f4b.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Moreover, we've included a practical addition – a "<strong>Copy address button</strong>". Perfect for users with label printers, this button lets you instantly duplicate the address with just a click.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 19, 2023 - v1.58.1</strong></span></p> <p>Artwork Display Issue - We noticed some instances where uploaded artwork was not showing accurately within the "view my artwork" feature on the dashboard. This was linked to new categories we made earlier not being incorporated. We're pleased to let you know that this matter has been resolved, ensuring that all your own artwork is now properly displayed.</p> <p>Duplicate Photo Concerns - Another concern brought to our attention was the presence of duplicate posts in the "Art Gallery". We've acted promptly to resolve this issue. Additionally, we've implemented a quick fix: the "Upload your art" button will now be disabled after submission, preventing accidental double submissions.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 04, 2023 - v1.58.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're happy to announce that we've made some adjustments to the Subscription Details page to enhance clarity and usability. Here are the key updates:</p> <p>1. <strong>Direct Renewal for Current Plan</strong>: We've streamlined the process for direct renewals. If your current plan is "BASIC," you won't see an upgrade option with fee costs. This change simplifies the interface as it doesn't apply to this plan.</p> <p>2. <strong>Clear Subscription Options</strong>: We've implemented better detection to understand whether members want to downgrade, extend, or upgrade their membership plan. The "upgrade" option will only be visible when a user is eligible for an upgrade, making it easier to explore relevant membership plan options without clutter.</p> <p>3. <strong>Instant Plan Upgrades</strong>: The system has been optimized to simplify the upgrade process, allowing you to access the benefits of the new plan promptly. For example, if you're on the "PREMIUM" plan and have exhausted all your credits but want to join an event, you can immediately upgrade to the "PLATINUM" plan from your subscription page. You'll be notified about the upgrade process and how it will affect your current plan.</p> <p>4. <strong>Understanding Remaining Days</strong>: When you instantly upgrade your plan (without waiting), you'll receive a notification about the remaining days of your current plan. This information will help you decide whether to proceed with the instant upgrade. Please note that upgrading may result in the loss of any remaining days in your current plan, and you can make an informed decision based on this information.</p> <p>5. <strong>Couponcode Enhancement</strong>: We've renewed and simplified the coupon code option, making it easier for you to apply discounts and special offers to your subscription. Enjoy a smoother process when using coupon codes during your subscription transactions.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/1c638c0ecda67ce880a1543744ac69d2.png" alt="" width="473" height="423" /></p> <p><em>* Please note that the upgrade button is visible because we are upgrading from the PREMIUM plan to the PLATINUM plan. If the package is the same or lower, the upgrade option will not be displayed</em></p> <p>We hope these changes make the Subscription Details page more user-friendly and straightforward for all our valued members. As always, we welcome your feedback on the improvements we've made.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 29, 2023 - v1.57.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've got your back if you encounter a swap with a missing or incorrect Swap ID. Visit our <a href="swap-received" target="_blank" rel="noopener">swap-received</a> page and click the new <strong>Missing or incorrect Swap ID</strong> link. Complete the form, providing at least two fields:</p> <ul> <li>Partial Swap ID (if available)</li> <li>Date received</li> <li>Sent from Country</li> <li>Sender's address details</li> <li>Extra information about the swap</li> </ul> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/168a6d16990ab7a77116a910fe9aab95.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We'll utilize your information to help locate the correct Swap ID, ensuring a smooth registration process. </p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 25, 2023 - v1.56.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've just rolled out the Swap ID Summary feature. When you enter your Swap ID on the <a href="swap-received" target="_blank" rel="noopener">swap received</a> page, you'll instantly get a summary of all the essential details: swap title, category, themes, goodies, and the talented creator behind it. This way, you'll know exactly which swap you rate and whether it perfectly matches the theme.</p> <p>We're excited to make your swapping experience even more delightful and organized. <img style="width: 25px; height: 25px; margin: 0 .05em 0 .1em; vertical-align: -5px;" draggable="false" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/twemoji/1f40c.png" alt="🐌" data-emoticon="true" /><img style="width: 25px; height: 25px; margin: 0 .05em 0 .1em; vertical-align: -5px;" draggable="false" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/twemoji/1f48c.png" alt="💌" data-emoticon="true" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/3adb575a1788e35691c429490bb3425f.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 23, 2023 - v1.55.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are pleased to announce a recent update to <a href="our-members?view=all&mode=list&sorting=newest&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">our member page</a>, which focuses on improving the filter functionality to enhance your user experience. The latest enhancements bring more convenience and flexibility to setting up filters for your preferences.<br /><br />We have streamlined the filter setup process to make it even more user-friendly. With a cleaner and more intuitive interface, you can now easily customize your filters to find exactly what you're looking for.<br /><br />What's new:</p> <ul> <li>Search on username: Easily find partial matches with just a few letters</li> <li>Localized connections with country and city filters</li> <li>Stay engaged by filtering based on login activity</li> <li>Personalized swaps with direct (personal) swap preference filter</li> <li>Visual references through profile picture inclusion</li> </ul> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/8a77d9ae48fe8b0d99adb34dedd4f626.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 22, 2023 - v1.54.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are thrilled to announce a significant enhancement to our Private Messaging feature! Starting today, you will have a more insightful communication experience by introducing read status indicators for your messages.</p> <p><strong>What's New:</strong><br />When you send a private message to another user, you can easily track its status. We have introduced two distinct status indicators:</p> <p><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Delivered </strong></span>(Pending): You will notice a grey double checkmark<img class="img-responsive checks_width" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/assets/images/double_check_grey.png" alt="" />when your message is successfully delivered to the recipient's inbox. This indicates that the message has reached the intended recipient but has yet to be read.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/1d008fdfe90f04cdb007d40534d0d24f.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Read </strong></span>(Confirmation): Once the recipient opens and reads your message, the double checkmarks will turn blue<img class="img-responsive checks_width" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/assets/images/double_check_blue.png" alt="" />, instantly confirming that your message has been seen and acknowledged.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/cc2fe48a708b094375576b5fcffd74a0.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jul 19, 2023 - v1.53.1</span></strong></p> <p>We've resolved a minor issue with line breaks in our messaging system. Previously, there was excessive spacing when pressing the enter key to start a new line while writing a private message. We've fine-tuned the functionality to deliver a smoother experience with cleaner and more natural spacing.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 15, 2023 - v1.53.0</strong></span></p> <p>In our latest update, we've introduced a new validation check for date selections when creating an event, random- or personal swaps. If you select a date over six months from the current date, a pop-up confirmation will appear to ask if this is correct. This new feature is designed to help prevent errors and ensure the accuracy of your data.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/422ba5f317f5adb1a6c6049d3fda5c1b.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Happy scheduling!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 12, 2023 - v1.52.1</strong></span></p> <p>Improved user experience: Enabling automatic email notifications for private messages by default, ensuring you never miss an important PM.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 11, 2023 - v1.52.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're pleased to announce a new addition to our forum: the ability to <strong>like posts</strong>! Now you can show appreciation for a post by clicking the thumbs-up button. See who liked a post, view their profiles, and even send friend requests directly from that screen if your not friends yet. And don't worry; removing your like is just as easy if you change your mind.</p> <p>Give a thumbs-up and let the poster know you love what they shared! Spread positivity and show your support throughout the forum!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/21883f178e6638aedef51e885ca3380b.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 03, 2023 - v1.51.0</strong></span></p> <p>We made some improvements on the event details page. Now it's easier to join on mobile devices or if you are on a tablet. We also lowered the comment section so the critical information is on top, which makes navigation easier.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 02, 2023 - v1.50.0</strong></span></p> <p>We have upgraded our email delivery system to <strong>Brevo</strong>, a reliable platform with increased capacity and lightning-fast delivery time. From now on, you can also use a Yahoo email address. To ensure delivery of our emails, we recommend marking them as "<span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Not Spam</strong></span>". This action will help ensure all our future emails are delivered to your inbox.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fdabdde1b9be5f542593a9d5f9497b37.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 23, 2023 - v1.49.0</strong></span></p> <p>Exciting news! We have recently added a variety of new swap categories for you to choose from.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/2af77594a1d80db3dc3409a1c1fd1a48.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 22, 2023 - v1.48.0</strong></span></p> <p>We have made an update to the '<strong>Address Label Confirmation</strong>' process when you want to send out a swap. Users will now find a checkbox that they must tick to confirm that they have written the address label correctly before they can proceed to the next step. </p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/7f70daf3be61bed660b7d72dd9059c4e.png" alt="" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/075d79ba262dc3b6457bf0a6dd78f75e.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This provides an added layer of assurance and helps prevent any potential errors arising from overlooking this crucial step.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 16, 2023 - v1.47.0</strong></span></p> <p>Introducing our latest feature: <strong>Send a Random Act of Kindness Swap</strong>!</p> <p>We're thrilled to unveil a heartwarming addition to our swap options. Now you can spread love, joy, and kindness through surprise gestures. With this feature, you can send thoughtful items to fellow participants without expecting anything in return. It's all about brightening someone's day with an unexpected act of generosity. Let's make the world happier, one swap at a time! <br /><br />You can choose a friend manually, or if you prefer, utilize our Randomization option to let us select a friend for you! Here's a pro tip: You can also send a heartwarming surprise to someone on their birthday, spreading extra joy and making their special day even more memorable.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ef6ea84325d3d6db0c03673d4d7988f5.png" alt="" /></p> <p>You can find the new option <a href="send-a-swap" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 07, 2023 - v1.46.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> We are excited to announce an update to the Art Gallery, providing a fresh and enhanced experience.</p> <p>In the latest release, we introduced new features allowing you to customize your browsing experience. You can now set filters in the Art Gallery, including the option to view only your favorite artworks and exclude your own creations.</p> <p>Additionally, we have added convenient options to explore specific members' art collections. With a single click, you can view all the art created by a particular member, visit their profile, and even send them a private message for direct communication.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/111bd6275b622af276cc4440c16cba8f.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We hope these updates make it easier for you to discover and appreciate the amazing artwork within our community. Enjoy the refreshed Art Gallery experience and continue to connect with fellow artists.<br /><br />The Art Gallery can be found <a href="art-gallery?view=all&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><strong><br />b. </strong>We've just added a new button on <a href="my-dashboard" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>My Dashboard</strong></a>. Now, you can kickstart an event in a snap with just one click. No more hassle, just instant event creation at your fingertips!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fc81588824b83a5b7a2fac1c466fa501.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 05, 2023 - v1.45.0</strong></span></p> <p>We have introduced a new feature: <strong>Swap Calendar</strong>. With the Swap Calendar, you can conveniently view your scheduled swaps and stay organized. Each swap is marked with a send-by date, making it easy to keep track of deadlines. Moreover, you now have the option to add personal notes to each swap, allowing you to include specific details or reminders. Simply click on an event in the calendar to access the detailed information of your swap, including the ability to add or view any associated notes.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/f0e2be44a1db9f39ae993c0cfc3965d3.png" alt="" /><br /><br />You calendar can be found <a href="calendar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p> </p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>May 03, 2023 - v1.44.0</strong></span></p> <p>We added a new feature to our platform that event creators can now set a minimum profile points requirement for members who wish to join their events.<br /><br />More info can be found <a href="viewtopic?id=380&title=new-feature-for-event-creators---minimum-profile-points-event-joining&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 30, 2023 - v1.43.0</strong></span></p> <p>We made an improvement to the rating system that allows users to update their ratings for completed swaps. Now, if you've rated a swap and later decide to modify your rating, you can do so easily with our new 're-rate' option. This feature gives you the flexibility to make changes to your ratings as needed, ensuring that your feedback is always accurate and up-to-date.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/3253999a55624a5b039ac284f04b3238.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 29, 2023 - v1.42.0</strong></span></p> <p>We made some changes to our request a random swap and request a random postcard page. We added a "<strong>Regional Swapping</strong>" function to the pages.</p> <p>If you're interested in using our random swap or random postcard swap feature but want to keep costs low, you can use our new Regional Swapping feature.</p> <p>Selecting the Regional option allows you to swap only within your own country or others you selected. This can help you save on international shipping costs and other fees associated with swapping with members from other countries.</p> <p>When selecting countries for Regional Swapping, you can choose up to 3 countries. You'll be able to see how many swap partners are available for the chosen countries.</p> <p>So, if you're looking for a way to swap within your own country and save on costs, consider using our new Regional Swapping feature.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/47216814d707229eead003c6be2350e6.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 19, 2023 - v1.41.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've made several improvements and bug fixes to our platform. We have fixed various bugs across the platform to improve its stability and performance. On the registration page, we have updated it to make it more straightforward which fields are required. Additionally, we have optimized the country and city selector script on the registration page, resulting in faster loading times. <br /><br />We also made some improvements and bug fixes on our forum.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 10, 2023 - v1.40.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> We've improved the "<strong>My Profile</strong>" section on our platform. Now, everything is in one convenient spot, making it easier for you to manage your account. You can easily access different parts of your profile using the tabs provided for smooth navigation.</p> <p>Check it out here: <a href="my-profile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-profile</a></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/11698e20814cc1d3caa0db841255488c.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We're always working to improve your experience, so we hope you find these updates helpful.<br /><br /></p> <p><strong>b.</strong> We've added a new Forum menu button for easier access to our vibrant community discussions. Join the conversation now!</p> <p>Check it out here: <a href="forum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/forum</a></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/d3ba3cc2d4df453db9363bbd515d7a86.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 05, 2023 - v1.39.1</strong></span></p> <p>Resolved an issue: Reveal random swap addresses were not triggered by an error in the cronjob files due to a platform change where PHP short tags are not supported anymore. We resolved the issue, and it's working again. Apologies for the inconvenience.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 02, 2023 - v1.39.0</strong></span></p> <p>We take spam very seriously and want to ensure that our platform remains a safe and enjoyable space for all users. To achieve this, we have implemented a new messaging policy for our Basic plan that limits the number of messages each member can send.</p> <p>Under the Basic plan, each member can send a maximum of 2 private messages per hour to unique recipients. This policy is in place to prevent spamming and ensure you can communicate effectively with your snail mail partner while keeping unwanted messages at bay. Please note that if we receive reports of spamming or complaints from our members, we reserve the right to disable the private messages function for you.</p> <p>If you wish to send messages to multiple members or exceed the message limit, upgrading your membership is necessary. Our Standard, Premium, or Platinum plans offer additional benefits and features to enhance your experience on our platform.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 25, 2023 - v1.38.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. </strong>We've just added a new feature that allows the event creator to see who each swap has been assigned to as soon as the event is live.<br /><br /><strong>Standard Swap Event</strong> (one on one swaps)</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ba4596d860b11517179df99d037707db.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Random Swap Event</strong> (mixed up for extra fun)</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/babaf316116fc7aee55fe7dbc0bc264c.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><strong>b.</strong> We've added a new feature to our system that automatically sends an e-mail reminder to the swap creator/sender if their outgoing swap will be registered as received but has yet to be marked as shipped. We understand that sometimes it's easy to forget to click the 'Mark as shipped' button, so this feature is designed to remind you to do so as soon as possible. The receiver can not register your swap as 'received' if the status is not 'shipped' yet.</p> <p>Rest assured that this process is still the same, and marking your swap as shipped is still required for the receiver to complete the registration process and rate your swap. However, if you forget, our system will automatically send you an e-mail reminder to help ensure a smooth swapping experience for all parties involved. As soon as you change the status to shipped, an e-mail notification will be sent back to the receiver so they know they can rate your swap.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 19, 2023 - v1.37.0</strong></span></p> <p>This a quick update to let you know we've updated our rating system for swaps. From now on, we're using a 2-decimal rating scale, which means you'll get a more precise average rating for your overall swapping activity. This change will make things fairer for everyone and give you a better idea of how well you're doing in the swapping community. We're excited to offer this improved rating system and hope it enhances your swapping experience.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/2e95343102f520912cb82d3141bf18c7.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 18, 2023 - v1.36.0</strong></span></p> <p>We just released a new feature that will enhance your experience and give you more control over unwanted private messages. The feature to report and block members is now available, and we will closely monitor its effectiveness to ensure your safety and comfort while using our platform.</p> <p>With this new feature, you can easily report a user and block them from sending you further messages. You can report a user by providing a reason for the report and then blocking them directly from their user profile or private message. If you report a user via private message, the conversation will also be deleted, making it inaccessible to both parties.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 17, 2023 - v1.35.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are excited to introduce our new feature, <strong>Personal Rating</strong>, which allows you to rate how well a swap met your preferences and how much you enjoyed it. This feature will help your swap partner understand your preferences and improve their future swaps accordingly.</p> <p>We encourage you to provide constructive and specific feedback, even if personalization isn't required. Remember, your heart ratings are only visible to your swap partner, so feel free to be honest and detailed.</p> <p>We hope this new feature will foster a positive swapping community and make your swapping experiences even better. Don't forget to check the feedback you receive to improve your own swaps!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e8bb0cd3e72c17aa7b279e906f586955.png" alt="" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/39586339678667eb8a1601b033021faa.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 11, 2023 - v1.34.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> To ensure that everyone can participate in our standard swap events, we have implemented a new feature to prevent the automatic removal of the last signed-up member when the event closes with an odd number of participants.</p> <p>The creator of a standard event (which requires an even number of participants) will receive an email notification one day before the closing date. If there are uneven numbers of participants at that time, those members will be asked to invite friends they think would enjoy participating in the event.</p> <p>If you set the event to a regional area, you can only invite friends from that specific region. If you set the event to an international area, you can invite any friend who is not yet participating.</p> <p>Furthermore, we have added an option to automatically close the event registration once the next member signs up. This helps prevent any participants from being removed due to an uneven number. With these new features, we aim to make our swap events more enjoyable for everyone.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/7d442df01942b430672f64cf5111cd86.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This option is only available one day before the closing date, and when we notice that uneven members are joining at that time.</p> <p><strong>b.</strong> We have enhanced the private messaging system with new features, including the ability to use text formatting such as bold and italic, create lists, share images, and add clickable links.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/88d7163cebe4964ac3fae02b74b724e6.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Want to send a private message to other members? Click <a href="private-messages?&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>!<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 08, 2023 - v1.33.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've just implemented a small change that allows you to check the list of members who have signed up for a specific event. So, if you're interested in seeing who else will be attending, simply head over to the event page to find out!<br /><br />We've also included arrow keys for the member list when more than ten people are signed up for an event, making it super easy to navigate left and right without having to scroll through a long list. With a tap, you go to the next slide without the need to refresh the page.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/f670a373a591bfcc9924c73becccfa2d.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 03, 2023 - v1.32.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are happy to announce to our new game swap feature <strong>Tag, you're it!</strong> is LIVE!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/8aef7ba5205162cf06150d185c4154f9.png" alt="" width="527" height="331" /></p> <p>Are you tired of sending the same old snail mail and want to connect with people worldwide? If so, the "Tag, you're it" game on Snail Mail Friends might just be what you need! This exciting and creative activity is a fun twist on the classic game of tag. It allows you to exchange unique and personalized snail mail with people from around the globe.<br /><br />Read our guide <a href="exploring-tag-youre-it" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> and view all current games by checking out <a href="view-events?view=all&mode=list&sorting=new&type=special-events&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this</a> link.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 29, 2023 - v1.31.0</strong></span></p> <p>To improve user communication, we've added a new feature on the profile page that enables private messaging and we've made it easier for you to access your swap request by including a direct link to it in the confirmation email.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 17, 2023 - v1.30.2</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. </strong>Resolved an issue: The acceptance of a new personal swap was halted due to an error that occurs when the description includes a single quote, causing the script to stop at that point and the user to receive an error message. As a result, the new swap could not be saved in the database.</p> <p><strong>b.</strong> To improve readability while composing a new private message, you can now resize the textarea box. As a result, the member image will move to the top, creating a wider textarea box.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 15, 2023 - v1.30.1</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> Going forward, the system has been updated to prevent the '<strong>Write address label</strong>' step from being initiated until the recipient's address has been revealed by a random swap which should help ensure a smoother and more efficient user experience.<br /><br /><strong>b.</strong> Resolved an issue: Fixed a bug where only one notification was being displayed, even though multiple notifications were available.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/bd0401aaf8783ae0db749caa6fbfa1f5.png" alt="" /></p> <p><strong>c.</strong> Members who are permitted to write guest blog posts on our platform now have a designated icon on their user profile page.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/5261b6616e75533da85898671783005c.png" alt="" /></p> <p><strong>d.</strong> I have added two additional fields to the event creation page, allowing users to input the name of the credits for the images they use and a link to their social media or website. Both fields are optional and will be displayed on the event page itself as a clickable link.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/b4c6b37cde27927542ddab31a7323e64.png" alt="" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/48f0e9f4cb22b9097027ede927b49020.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 15, 2023 - v1.30.0</strong></span></p> <p>Stay in the loop with the latest new events on Snail Mail Friends by enabling email and/or browser notifications for new event announcements. This feature is enabled by default, but if you prefer not to receive these notifications, you can easily disable them in your <a href="notification-settings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Notification Settings</a>.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 13, 2023 - v1.29.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are happy to announce to our new feature <strong>Unity Hubs</strong> is LIVE! <br /><br />Snail Mail Friends is a community where you can connect with others who share your interests and passions. If you're looking to bring together a group of people who share similar interests, creating a Unity Hub is a fun and easy way to do so.<br /><br />More information can be found <a href="exploring-unity-hubs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 11, 2023 - v1.28.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've made a small improvement to our platform! You can now find a <strong>feedback button</strong> on every page (bottom left), making it easy to share your thoughts and suggestions and report any bugs you may encounter.</p> <p>If you're logged in, the system will automatically recognize you, so you can quickly type in your feedback and press send. Your feedback is valuable to us, and this new feature makes it simple for you to connect with us.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/19b17bfe0b7682014facf89e4861179d.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 09, 2023 - v1.27.0</strong></span></p> <p>Made some improvements to our "<a href="latest-forum-posts" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Latest Posts</strong></a>" page on our forum.</p> <p>We realized that the previous version of the page wasn't providing the best possible overview of the latest posts. Now, the page is much more organized and provides a clearer view of the latest posts in each specific topic.<br /><br />You'll notice that the posts are listed in a more intuitive and user-friendly way, making it easier to keep track of the latest discussions<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/c567703129578bfd835ecef43a6858a5.png" alt="" width="443" height="394" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 29, 2023 - v1.26.1</strong></span></p> <p>Resolved an issue: A problem was encountered when attempting to load additional comments on a user story. Upon pressing the "<strong>Load more comments</strong>" link, new comments were not appearing as expected.<br /><br /></p> <p>We want your activation experience to be smooth and hassle-free, so we've introduced a new resend option in our registration process. If you haven't received your activation email, use this feature to send it again. </p> <p>We understand that emails can sometimes go missing or end up in your spam folder, but with the <strong>resend option</strong>, you can quickly resolve the issue and activate your account without delay.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 06, 2023 - v1.25.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are happy to announce that due to popular demand, we are now offering two free swap credits to all BASIC plan members to test Snail Mail Friends before upgrading to a paid membership plan.<br /><br />Explore our services through personal or random swaps. Start sending <a href="send-a-swap" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>!<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 29, 2023 - v1.24.0</span><br /></strong><br />Introduced a new page "<strong>Send a Swap</strong>" where all the swap modes are listed like: <em>Request a personal swap</em>, <em>Request a personal postcard</em>, <em>Request a random swap</em>, <em>Request a random postcard</em>, <em>Send a One-Way-Postcard</em>.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/3a90459bd78831b9a0236a6e218e1fdc.png" alt="" />  <br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/abdebb6d26cb57429a87bea1c3b692e9.png" alt="" /><br /><br />Additionally, we have added a new feature to the Personal Swap and Personal Postcard mode, the Randomizer button. This button will randomize the dropdown menu of your friend list so that the computer can select a friend for you. This way, you can still have a personalized exchange but with an added element of surprise. This feature is perfect for those who want to add a bit of fun and excitement to their exchange experience but still want to swap with their friends.<br /><br />The page can be found here: <a href="send-a-swap" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/send-a-swap</a><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 21, 2023 - v1.23.0</span><br /></strong><br />Cents per day added to our pricing. Daily cost now more clearly displayed in our pricing information.<br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/eea57ac1ee026f31a57f35ad46bb10c2.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 20, 2023 - v1.22.1</span><br /></strong><br />Resolved an issue: Access to the swap information was restricted for an angel.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 17, 2023 - v1.22.0</span><br /></strong><br />Introducing a new feature: <strong>One-Way postcard sending</strong>!<br /><br />This feature is ideal for those who want to send postcards to people they don't know or a friend. This feature allows you to send a postcard to a random person without requiring approval. The recipient is not required to send a postcard back to you, making it a one-way postcard-sending experience. This feature is excellent for sending postcards to people you might not know and getting a smile on their faces.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 15, 2023 - v1.21.0</span><br /></strong><br />Implemented a logout feature in the menu with a dedicated button.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/1a1c180866be580ba27c48ceb6f48c40.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jan 14, 2023 - v1.20.0</strong></span><br /><br />We have implemented a feature allowing the poll owner to view the participants who have cast their votes.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/19f67d4770392de3a3d95b810dfd7db3.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 13, 2023 - v1.19.1</span><br /></strong><br />We resolved an issue with external links causing excessive loading of code due to the pop-up being triggered for all links, including internal ones.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/0b1766db7568a3c144fc634dd7894757.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 13, 2023 - v1.19.0</span><br /></strong><br />Changed the size of our emoticons, they look much better now.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jan 08, 2023 - v1.18.0</strong></span><br /><br />The option to purchase gift vouchers has been added to our platform.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ce28d1af57b438a7fe45d5da06d6f42b.png" alt="" /><br /><br />The Digital Snail Mail Friends gift voucher is ideal for treating yourself, your family, or your friends. The gift voucher is valid for all our plans and does not expire. You can add a personal message and choose a delivery date for the voucher, so it's possible to buy it in advance and get it delivered on the selected date. Never miss a birthday anymore <img style="width: 25px; height: 25px; margin: 0 .05em 0 .1em; vertical-align: -5px;" draggable="false" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/twemoji/1f609.png" alt="😉" data-emoticon="true" />.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 03, 2023 - v1.17.1</span><br /></strong><br />Resolved an issue: Corrected an issue preventing year 2023 from being selected in the calendar.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p> </p> <p>Please note that this post will be updated regularly as new changes and updates are made to the platform. We welcome any feedback or suggestions you may have.</p> <p>Thank you for your continued support.<br />Marco</p></blockquote><br>

<p>Here you can find our release notes which will be updated frequently.</p> <p> </p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Nov 13, 2024 - v1.76.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've revamped the <strong>frequently asked questions (FAQ)</strong> to make finding answers easier than ever.<br /><em>You've got questions. We've got answers.</em><br /><br />Now, with a streamlined layout and improved keyword search, you can quickly locate explanations for the topics you’re curious about. Each section is designed to help you find the information you need without any hassle.<br /><br />Have a look at: <a title="https://www.snailmailfriends.com/frequently-asked-questions" href="frequently-asked-questions" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/frequently-asked-questions</a></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 12, 2024 - v1.75.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're excited to introduce <strong>Swap Credits</strong>, offering more flexibility for your snail mailing experience! You can now purchase credits that never expire, allowing you to send personal or random swaps, or join events, without the need for a subscription plan. This is perfect for members who want to explore our platform, participate in regular events, or stay active without the pressure of a fixed-term commitment. Buy as many credits as you need and enjoy swapping on your own terms!<br /><br />More information can be found <a href="swap-credits" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 22, 2024 - v1.74.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are excited to announce that our new and improved menu is now live! Thank you to all the members who filled out our questionnaire and shared your valuable feedback. Your insights have been instrumental in enhancing your experience on Snail Mail Friends.</p> <p>Here’s what you can look forward to with our new menu:</p> <p><strong>Improved navigation:</strong> The new layout makes it easier for you to find what you’re looking for, ensuring a more user-friendly experience.<br /><br /><strong>Quick access links:</strong> Add your 8 favorite links within the website for quick access to your most-visited pages. This feature allows you to personalize your navigation, making it faster to reach your preferred content.<br /><br /><strong>Received a swap:</strong> This feature is now called 'Register received swap' and placed in the main menu across all systems in the swap tracker menu under incoming swaps. You can also make 'register received swap' a quick access link.<br /><br /><strong>Swaps:</strong> It's now possible to request and create a swap directly from the menu, simplifying the process and improving accessibility.<br /><br /><strong>Better managed notifications:</strong> Read message notifications can now be auto-removed, keeping your notification panel clean and organized. Users have the option to turn on this feature according to their preference. Additionally, it has been made easier to see when you have a new notification, ensuring you never miss an important update.<br /><br />We receive many requests and suggestions from our community. While we can't implement every idea, we deeply appreciate your input, no matter how big or small. Implementing improvements takes time and resources, and we hope you'll find the new menu enhances your experience on our site. Enjoy exploring the new features!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 17, 2024 - v1.73.3</strong></span></p> <p>Due to a bug, notifications were not being sent for Round Robin rounds, and it was not being recorded if a Round Robin had not been received after the shipped threshold date. As a result, it was not possible to later mark the Round Robin as LOST or to prompt participants to start a new Round Robin for the owner of the lost swap. This issue has been resolved.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 09, 2024 - v1.73.2</strong></span></p> <p>We fixed a bug on the Getting Started page where the display of 'Complete Your Profile' was not rendering correctly. After resolving the issue, the prompt now displays accurately as intended. </p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 24, 2024 - v1.73.1</strong></span></p> <p>We have fixed a small bug where duplicate emails were being sent to both the creator of a Round Robin event and the participants who had joined. This issue has now been resolved, ensuring that notifications are correctly directed to the appropriate recipients based on their roles within the event.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Dec 27, 2023 - v1.73</strong></span></p> <p>We've made significant enhancements to our incoming and outgoing swap processes.</p> <p>For incoming swaps, we're introducing an new feature. If a swap becomes overdue, with more than 7 days passed since the scheduled shipping date, you now have the capability to send a friendly reminder to your swap partner. This feature empowers you to prompt your swap partner to take action and ensure the successful completion of the swap.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ef68e6e93f6d980fc892e2a37348f68a.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We've also introduced an additional feature for incoming swaps in cases where your swap partner hasn't responded or taken any action.<br /><br />For swaps scheduled on or after [shipping date], if more than 7 days have elapsed since the last reminder was sent, and the swap is still ongoing, you now have the option to hide it. Choosing this option will remove the swap from your active incoming list for organizational purposes. However, you can still mark it as received if it arrives later on. Please note that this option will result in a 'Failed to Send +1' note on your swap partner's profile, indicating that the swap was not completed as scheduled. You can still access and move inactive incoming swaps back to your active list if needed.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/f8ce8f533f31461118082751d96e4f2f.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This will lead to a Failed to Send +1 on their profile. <br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fd4872990a9e97590df662a6d19e6b37.png" alt="" /><br /><br />Now for the outgoing swaps. We've introduced a new feature to help you manage your swaps more effectively. If the shipping date for a swap was over 45 days ago and your swap partner has not yet received it, you now have the option to send them a reminder. This reminder encourages your swap partner to take action and inquire about the status of the swap. Additionally, you can receive the swap through our system or send a private message to initiate contact with your swap partner. We believe this feature will enhance your overall swap experience by facilitating communication and timely resolution for any delayed swaps.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ef2964bd4ddf0d0ae6f0c993d23d5a95.png" alt="" /></p> <p>After sending the reminder, if 14 days pass and the situation remains unresolved, you will have two additional options:<br /><br /><strong>Hide from your active outgoing list:</strong> You can hide the swap from your active outgoing list for organizational purposes to keep it clear. However, you can still mark it as received when it arrives later on. Sometimes, especially for swaps from distant countries, delivery can take longer.<br /><br /><strong>Recreate the swap:</strong> The second option is to recreate the swap and send it once more. You are in control of whether you want to recreate and resend the swap to your swap partner. When you use this option, you reset the swap from scratch so you can follow the steps again.<br /><br />We believe these additional options will provide you with more flexibility and control over your swaps, ensuring a smoother and more reliable swap experience.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/0afc5095475dcb39402cef11baff1c02.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Recreating the swap will reset it, indicating that it's a resend. You can then recreate your swap once again, and the new shipping date will be set to 14 days from the moment you hit the 'Recreate Swap' button. Proceed with the normal steps from there.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fc1f0397fde70d02b837695970f4f1b1.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Dec 18, 2023 - v1.72.2</strong></span></p> <p>We've fixed a problem where if you reloaded the page after making an event, it would accidentally make the same event again. Now, this issue is solved, so you can refresh the page without worrying about creating duplicate events.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Dec 17, 2023 - v1.72.1</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. </strong>We've fixed a bug in our Round Robin allocation system that previously led to the process halting midway when a location name was missing. This issue arose because our system relies on a database of coordinates to calculate distances between swaps. Without these coordinates, the script was unable to continue. Now, if a location name is missing from our database, the system seamlessly switches to the nearest town or city already chosen by the user, using their coordinates to ensure uninterrupted operation and precise distance calculations for effective pairing.</p> <p><strong>b.</strong> We've made some updates to the swap progress tracking within the events. Now, not only can you see when your item has been shipped, complete with the shipment date, but we've also introduced a fifth status option: 'Received.' This new feature allows you to view the 'Received' status along with the exact date your item was delivered, giving you a clearer and more detailed overview of your swap's journey.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/56328d239b6901ab4115a5c81c392328.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Dec 16, 2023 - v1.72.0</span></strong></p> <p>We have updated our FAQ page, incorporating both content revisions and a new layout design to enhance your experience. For more information and to view the improvements, please visit our updated page at <a href="faq" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/faq</a></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Nov 12, 2023 - v1.71.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. Likes and dislikes on register page</strong></p> <p>Initiate your preferences from the start! We've incorporated the likes and dislikes option directly onto the registration page, as it is now a required step. Following registration completion, dive into your profile to offer detailed descriptions, allowing you to go beyond simple tags and express your likes and dislikes in full text. Customize your Snail Mail experience to truly capture and reflect your unique preferences!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/94ee61755c53c6aef6d1144a930ad9da.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><strong>b. Quick Glance: Your sent Round Robin rounds</strong></p> <p>We've added a quick glance inside your Round Robin dashboard to stay in the loop on what Round Robins you've already sent and which are still waiting to be sent, requested by a member.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/780c65d220bb6bbc951319e3cf15bd8b.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><strong>c. Quick Glance: Your sent Round Robin rounds</strong></p> <p>From now on you can select minimal profile points directly from our members page (<a href="our-members?view=all&sorting=name&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/our-members?view=all&sorting=name&page=1</a>)<br /><br /><em>*Enhancing your profile by earning points is essential for making the most out of our Snail Mails and event features.</em></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/bd5b2108cdca83685ec2d7b062679ff6.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><strong>d. Report Artwork</strong></p> <p>We've introduced a new feature for reporting artwork inside the <a href="art-gallery?view=all&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Art Gallery</a>, covering concerns such as copyright infringement, inappropriate content, private Information, plagiarism, spam, and more. Simply click on the small menu icon below the artwork, then select "Report This Artwork". Choose a reason that best fits your concern and submit it instantly.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/c24ee39dd89d9a8b78b9e5109c26ca52.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 16, 2023 - v1.70.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've enhanced your login experience! Now, if you forget your username, simply enter your email address and date of birth. If the provided information matches our records, we'll promptly send you an email containing your username. Effortlessly regain access to your account and stay securely connected with our updated features!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e57b67583d83614f3e4732902b3fe50f.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 15, 2023 - v1.69.0</strong></span></p> <p>New! Introducing the <strong>Round Robin feature</strong> – A burst of creativity:<br />Hold onto your hats because we're introducing our biggest feature since the launch of Snail Mail Friends: Round Robin! While the concept has been around for a while, Snail Mail Friends is proud to be the only website that helps hosts and participants keep track of the rounds. Imagine a shared art journal traveling from one artist to another, each page a new canvas waiting to be adorned. As it journeys through creative hands, it transforms into a masterpiece infused with diverse styles, techniques, and ideas. It's not just a journal; it's a collective artwork, a testament to the beauty of collaboration. </p> <p>Please give this new Roun Robin feature a go, it's our biggest update since the launch of our website!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/4b8605a7450cf1bf9fdde19711e280dc.png" alt="" /></p> <p>More information can be found here: <a href="introduction-to-a-round-robin" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/introduction-to-a-round-robin</a></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 06, 2023 - v1.68.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've revamped our login page to match the fresh style of our register page.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/20361aa4e4e9f99ef092d27653475d4f.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Oct 04, 2023 - v1.67.0<br /><br /></strong></span><strong>Revamped Register Page!</strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><br /></strong></span></p> <p>We've given our register page a fresh makeover! Now, it's not just a registration page; it's an experience. We've enhanced the design, making it visually appealing and incredibly user-friendly.</p> <p>What's new? We've revamped the layout, giving it a modern and polished look. Finding your way around is now easier with clear, simple, and intuitive navigation that guides you seamlessly through the process. Filling out the details is a breeze with our improved interface — hassle-free and designed with you in mind.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fce17aaace664b6c97570a7d63d9b015.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Happy register!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 16, 2023 - v1.66.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've just enhanced our "<a href="swap-received" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Received a swap</a>" page.<br />We've added a rating overview for each swap and personal ratings, making it even more user-friendly. Now, it's easier than ever to share and write your feedback.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/836aeeb61cf0d5d3b244e411e1f5f377.png" alt="" /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e2b7d7accf89724969605a0ee5d134d3.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 11, 2023 - v1.65.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're thrilled to bring you a new feature for event creators on our platform, inspired by valuable input from our community. We heard from some of our members who wanted to create an event but faced a hurdle because they didn't have an image or photo ready to use.</p> <p>Now, when you create a new event, you can select from our default event images and choose your swap image. You can always upload your unique swap event image to make your event stand out. In addition, we've added a selection of default event images that you can opt for if you don't have an image of your own. Whether you want to showcase your creativity with a custom image or prefer the convenience of our default event images, the choice is entirely yours! We encourage you to explore both options and select the one that best suits your event. We hope this new feature enhances your experience. </p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/6b6d0f89cd1e7a1a0f2cee0e9dbf40cd.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Over time, we will continue to enhance our default image library by adding more options to provide even greater variety for your events.<br /><br />Happy event planning! </p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 10, 2023 - v1.64.1</strong></span></p> <ul> <li><em>Bug fix</em>: Fixed an issue with displaying special characters, ensuring correct rendering and improved text clarity.</li> <li><em>Bug fix</em>: Resolved a critical issue causing an uncaught mysqli_sql_exception error when denying an angel's request for a swap.</li> <li><em>Enhancement</em>: Implemented a check that prevents users from joining an event when they have two or more swaps 14 days overdue or older, enhancing event participation management.</li> </ul> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 07, 2023 - v1.64.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've refined the <em>Request a Random Swap</em>, <em>Request a Random Postcard</em>, and <em>Send a One-Way Random Postcard</em> random selection features. While they worked before, we've now made them even better!</p> <p>Now, every member who signs up will have a fair shot at being chosen unexpectedly. We've also enhanced fairness by considering who has been randomly selected before. This improvement helps resolve the issue where (random) members were sometimes chosen by our system twice in a row. If all members have already been chosen, we automatically restart it! This means you can still be selected multiple times, but it's now a fairer system that ensures everyone gets their turn. Enjoy more diverse interactions!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Sept 06, 2023 - v1.63.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've introduced a new feature to enhance fair usage and prevent abuse. Now, users can change their country setting only once every 60 days. This update ensures that users participate in events within their region, promoting a fair and authentic experience. </p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/c2d3695ce34c900958fe5780466bc283.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 27, 2023 - v1.62.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. Calendar</strong></p> <p>We're excited to introduce an update to our calendar feature at <a href="calendar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/calendar</a>. When you explore the calendar, you'll notice significant new enhancements that make planning your snail mail projects easier.</p> <p>The standout change? We've refined the display so that only events you still need to join will appear. This means you get a quick and precise snapshot of the upcoming events that are available for you to participate in. No more sifting through events you're already part of! This new approach helps you track what's on the horizon and how much time you have left to sign up.</p> <p>We've also made these upcoming events distinct by giving them a soothing purple color. This way, they stand out without causing confusion with events already in progress. Additionally, we've added a subtle icon for a touch of visual flair.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/875723b2dc9304d931175302c7af8a07.png" alt="" /></p> <p>But that's not all! Once you've joined an event, it will automatically disappear from your calendar. This keeps it clean and focused on what's relevant to you. Even if you're considering an event but have yet to decide, it will still be there for your reference.</p> <p>Are you curious to explore this updated feature? Click on an event, and you'll be seamlessly taken to the details, making it a breeze to learn more and decide whether it's the right fit for you.</p> <p>We're dedicated to making your Snail Mail experience more enjoyable and streamlined. Give the revamped calendar a try, and we'd love to hear your feedback. Your input helps us refine and enhance our platform to suit your needs best. Happy swapping!</p> <p><br /><strong>b. Art Gallery</strong></p> <p>We're thrilled to share another enhancement – this time, it's all about improving your experience in the art gallery.</p> <p>We are introducing our revamped system for your artwork within the gallery. Your journey as an artist is about to get even more exciting!</p> <p>In the past, you might have received individual emails when your artwork garnered five likes. But we understand that creativity can spark quite a whirlwind of admiration, and sometimes, those likes can stack up by receiving multiple emails daily. That's why we've made a change – now, the milestone for receiving emails is set at ten likes. Moreover, we're bundling those likes into a single weekly email. Suppose your artwork has received more than ten likes within a week. In that case, you'll get a consolidated email highlighting your appreciation for your creations.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/76ceb670cbfabb0e0338caeb3c44815c.png" alt="" /></p> <p>And the best part? We've made it easier than ever to keep track of the love your artwork is receiving. You'll find a link in the email directly to your loved artwork. It's a fantastic way to see which pieces resonate with the community.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 23, 2023 - v1.61.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've given our dashboard a fresh new look! It's now more user-friendly and visually appealing, making navigating through your Snail Mail experience more accessible than ever.</p> <p>The most exciting part? We've introduced a fantastic new feature that we think you'll love – the ability to re-order your dashboard items. You can now arrange the things on your dashboard according to your preferences. Whether you want your Outgoing Snail Mails at the top, your Statistics, or even your Activities is up to you.</p> <p>Our brand-new 'Drag and Drop to Reorder' functionality makes customizing your dashboard a breeze. No more static layouts! Just click, hold, drag, and release the dashboard items exactly where you want them. It's an intuitive and seamless process that empowers you to create a personalized dashboard that reflects your Snail Mail journey.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/68566a1826bc1b7d0d248a4ded86feb9.png" alt="" /></p> <p><br />We've also added three new pages. Directly from your Dashboard, you can easily access all your sent and received swaps and a page displaying all the events you've created. This means you'll find everything you need on a single page, regardless of whether it's in your incoming/outgoing swap tracker or your archive.</p> <p>Additionally, we've incorporated a sorting feature that empowers you to arrange items from the oldest to the newest or vice versa, placing you in control of how you navigate your content.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/7ff02b9e414a6aaae75965ddf48928ab.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Ready to give it a shot? Head over to <a href="my-profile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-profile</a>, then click on "<strong>My Dashboard</strong>" to edit the looks of your dashboard. <br /><br />You can access the enhanced dashboard experience by visiting <a href="my-dashboard" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-dashboard</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 22, 2023 - v1.60.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're excited to announce a significant enhancement to our address system, designed to ensure a consistent and accurate address layout for all users. We've observed that some addresses needed to include essential information, leading to potential delivery issues. We've implemented a comprehensive update guaranteeing a uniform and correct address presentation to address this.<br /><br /></p> <p><strong>What's New:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Country-specific Address Formats:</strong> The new system tailors the address format according to the selected country. For instance, if you choose the United States, you can select one of the 50 states. Similarly, you can pick a province for Canada, and Australia is supported by its distinct states.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Automatic Layout Detection:</strong> Our system intelligently detects the country you've selected and adjusts the address layout automatically. This ensures that addresses are presented in the correct order based on the conventions of each country.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Complete Addresses:</strong> We've introduced mandatory address fields to ensure that all necessary components of an address are provided. This includes recipient names, street addresses, cities, states/provinces, and postal codes.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Enhanced City Selection:</strong> We've given you the ability to choose a city that isn't included in our database. Our system detects if you've chosen a city from the existing list or added your own. However, when you've added your city, we'll guide you to select the nearest city from our already listed database. This is crucial because we store the coordinates of every city, enabling precise distance calculations for swaps with your partner. This additional step enhances the overall experience by ensuring accurate location-based matches for your swaps.<br /><br /></li> <li><strong>Real-time Address Preview:</strong> To offer an improved experience, we've added a real-time address preview. This lets you see precisely how your address will appear to your swap partner. Please make sure to review and modify any details before finalizing.<br /><br /></li> </ul> <p><strong>Seamless Transition:</strong> We're pleased to inform you that we've already transferred all existing addresses to our new address system. This ensures that your previous address data is fully compatible with the enhanced layout. You can expect a more streamlined and accurate address experience, whether sending or receiving swaps.<br /><br /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/2d774a2208be9949d3ff63f588f9d8a7.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This update will significantly enhance the accuracy and reliability of address information, ensuring successful and smooth exchanges between community members.<br /><br />To access your address details, visit <a href="my-profile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-profile</a> and select the "<em>Location & Address</em>" tab. If needed, you can also make changes to your information there.<br /><br />Happy swapping!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 19, 2023 - v1.59.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're introducing a subtle yet visually pleasing change to the Shipping Address display inside your swap details page. You'll notice a refined look that adds a touch of elegance instead of just plain text.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e991a4276801161b6ea38a248bd49f4b.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Moreover, we've included a practical addition – a "<strong>Copy address button</strong>". Perfect for users with label printers, this button lets you instantly duplicate the address with just a click.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 19, 2023 - v1.58.1</strong></span></p> <p>Artwork Display Issue - We noticed some instances where uploaded artwork was not showing accurately within the "view my artwork" feature on the dashboard. This was linked to new categories we made earlier not being incorporated. We're pleased to let you know that this matter has been resolved, ensuring that all your own artwork is now properly displayed.</p> <p>Duplicate Photo Concerns - Another concern brought to our attention was the presence of duplicate posts in the "Art Gallery". We've acted promptly to resolve this issue. Additionally, we've implemented a quick fix: the "Upload your art" button will now be disabled after submission, preventing accidental double submissions.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Aug 04, 2023 - v1.58.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're happy to announce that we've made some adjustments to the Subscription Details page to enhance clarity and usability. Here are the key updates:</p> <p>1. <strong>Direct Renewal for Current Plan</strong>: We've streamlined the process for direct renewals. If your current plan is "BASIC," you won't see an upgrade option with fee costs. This change simplifies the interface as it doesn't apply to this plan.</p> <p>2. <strong>Clear Subscription Options</strong>: We've implemented better detection to understand whether members want to downgrade, extend, or upgrade their membership plan. The "upgrade" option will only be visible when a user is eligible for an upgrade, making it easier to explore relevant membership plan options without clutter.</p> <p>3. <strong>Instant Plan Upgrades</strong>: The system has been optimized to simplify the upgrade process, allowing you to access the benefits of the new plan promptly. For example, if you're on the "PREMIUM" plan and have exhausted all your credits but want to join an event, you can immediately upgrade to the "PLATINUM" plan from your subscription page. You'll be notified about the upgrade process and how it will affect your current plan.</p> <p>4. <strong>Understanding Remaining Days</strong>: When you instantly upgrade your plan (without waiting), you'll receive a notification about the remaining days of your current plan. This information will help you decide whether to proceed with the instant upgrade. Please note that upgrading may result in the loss of any remaining days in your current plan, and you can make an informed decision based on this information.</p> <p>5. <strong>Couponcode Enhancement</strong>: We've renewed and simplified the coupon code option, making it easier for you to apply discounts and special offers to your subscription. Enjoy a smoother process when using coupon codes during your subscription transactions.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/1c638c0ecda67ce880a1543744ac69d2.png" alt="" width="473" height="423" /></p> <p><em>* Please note that the upgrade button is visible because we are upgrading from the PREMIUM plan to the PLATINUM plan. If the package is the same or lower, the upgrade option will not be displayed</em></p> <p>We hope these changes make the Subscription Details page more user-friendly and straightforward for all our valued members. As always, we welcome your feedback on the improvements we've made.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 29, 2023 - v1.57.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've got your back if you encounter a swap with a missing or incorrect Swap ID. Visit our <a href="swap-received" target="_blank" rel="noopener">swap-received</a> page and click the new <strong>Missing or incorrect Swap ID</strong> link. Complete the form, providing at least two fields:</p> <ul> <li>Partial Swap ID (if available)</li> <li>Date received</li> <li>Sent from Country</li> <li>Sender's address details</li> <li>Extra information about the swap</li> </ul> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/168a6d16990ab7a77116a910fe9aab95.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We'll utilize your information to help locate the correct Swap ID, ensuring a smooth registration process. </p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 25, 2023 - v1.56.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've just rolled out the Swap ID Summary feature. When you enter your Swap ID on the <a href="swap-received" target="_blank" rel="noopener">swap received</a> page, you'll instantly get a summary of all the essential details: swap title, category, themes, goodies, and the talented creator behind it. This way, you'll know exactly which swap you rate and whether it perfectly matches the theme.</p> <p>We're excited to make your swapping experience even more delightful and organized. <img style="width: 25px; height: 25px; margin: 0 .05em 0 .1em; vertical-align: -5px;" draggable="false" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/twemoji/1f40c.png" alt="🐌" data-emoticon="true" /><img style="width: 25px; height: 25px; margin: 0 .05em 0 .1em; vertical-align: -5px;" draggable="false" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/twemoji/1f48c.png" alt="💌" data-emoticon="true" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/3adb575a1788e35691c429490bb3425f.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 23, 2023 - v1.55.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are pleased to announce a recent update to <a href="our-members?view=all&mode=list&sorting=newest&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">our member page</a>, which focuses on improving the filter functionality to enhance your user experience. The latest enhancements bring more convenience and flexibility to setting up filters for your preferences.<br /><br />We have streamlined the filter setup process to make it even more user-friendly. With a cleaner and more intuitive interface, you can now easily customize your filters to find exactly what you're looking for.<br /><br />What's new:</p> <ul> <li>Search on username: Easily find partial matches with just a few letters</li> <li>Localized connections with country and city filters</li> <li>Stay engaged by filtering based on login activity</li> <li>Personalized swaps with direct (personal) swap preference filter</li> <li>Visual references through profile picture inclusion</li> </ul> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/8a77d9ae48fe8b0d99adb34dedd4f626.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 22, 2023 - v1.54.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are thrilled to announce a significant enhancement to our Private Messaging feature! Starting today, you will have a more insightful communication experience by introducing read status indicators for your messages.</p> <p><strong>What's New:</strong><br />When you send a private message to another user, you can easily track its status. We have introduced two distinct status indicators:</p> <p><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Delivered </strong></span>(Pending): You will notice a grey double checkmark<img class="img-responsive checks_width" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/assets/images/double_check_grey.png" alt="" />when your message is successfully delivered to the recipient's inbox. This indicates that the message has reached the intended recipient but has yet to be read.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/1d008fdfe90f04cdb007d40534d0d24f.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Read </strong></span>(Confirmation): Once the recipient opens and reads your message, the double checkmarks will turn blue<img class="img-responsive checks_width" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/assets/images/double_check_blue.png" alt="" />, instantly confirming that your message has been seen and acknowledged.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/cc2fe48a708b094375576b5fcffd74a0.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jul 19, 2023 - v1.53.1</span></strong></p> <p>We've resolved a minor issue with line breaks in our messaging system. Previously, there was excessive spacing when pressing the enter key to start a new line while writing a private message. We've fine-tuned the functionality to deliver a smoother experience with cleaner and more natural spacing.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 15, 2023 - v1.53.0</strong></span></p> <p>In our latest update, we've introduced a new validation check for date selections when creating an event, random- or personal swaps. If you select a date over six months from the current date, a pop-up confirmation will appear to ask if this is correct. This new feature is designed to help prevent errors and ensure the accuracy of your data.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/422ba5f317f5adb1a6c6049d3fda5c1b.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Happy scheduling!</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 12, 2023 - v1.52.1</strong></span></p> <p>Improved user experience: Enabling automatic email notifications for private messages by default, ensuring you never miss an important PM.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 11, 2023 - v1.52.0</strong></span></p> <p>We're pleased to announce a new addition to our forum: the ability to <strong>like posts</strong>! Now you can show appreciation for a post by clicking the thumbs-up button. See who liked a post, view their profiles, and even send friend requests directly from that screen if your not friends yet. And don't worry; removing your like is just as easy if you change your mind.</p> <p>Give a thumbs-up and let the poster know you love what they shared! Spread positivity and show your support throughout the forum!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/21883f178e6638aedef51e885ca3380b.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 03, 2023 - v1.51.0</strong></span></p> <p>We made some improvements on the event details page. Now it's easier to join on mobile devices or if you are on a tablet. We also lowered the comment section so the critical information is on top, which makes navigation easier.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jul 02, 2023 - v1.50.0</strong></span></p> <p>We have upgraded our email delivery system to <strong>Brevo</strong>, a reliable platform with increased capacity and lightning-fast delivery time. From now on, you can also use a Yahoo email address. To ensure delivery of our emails, we recommend marking them as "<span style="color: #3598db;"><strong>Not Spam</strong></span>". This action will help ensure all our future emails are delivered to your inbox.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fdabdde1b9be5f542593a9d5f9497b37.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 23, 2023 - v1.49.0</strong></span></p> <p>Exciting news! We have recently added a variety of new swap categories for you to choose from.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/2af77594a1d80db3dc3409a1c1fd1a48.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 22, 2023 - v1.48.0</strong></span></p> <p>We have made an update to the '<strong>Address Label Confirmation</strong>' process when you want to send out a swap. Users will now find a checkbox that they must tick to confirm that they have written the address label correctly before they can proceed to the next step. </p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/7f70daf3be61bed660b7d72dd9059c4e.png" alt="" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/075d79ba262dc3b6457bf0a6dd78f75e.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This provides an added layer of assurance and helps prevent any potential errors arising from overlooking this crucial step.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 16, 2023 - v1.47.0</strong></span></p> <p>Introducing our latest feature: <strong>Send a Random Act of Kindness Swap</strong>!</p> <p>We're thrilled to unveil a heartwarming addition to our swap options. Now you can spread love, joy, and kindness through surprise gestures. With this feature, you can send thoughtful items to fellow participants without expecting anything in return. It's all about brightening someone's day with an unexpected act of generosity. Let's make the world happier, one swap at a time! <br /><br />You can choose a friend manually, or if you prefer, utilize our Randomization option to let us select a friend for you! Here's a pro tip: You can also send a heartwarming surprise to someone on their birthday, spreading extra joy and making their special day even more memorable.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ef6ea84325d3d6db0c03673d4d7988f5.png" alt="" /></p> <p>You can find the new option <a href="send-a-swap" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 07, 2023 - v1.46.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> We are excited to announce an update to the Art Gallery, providing a fresh and enhanced experience.</p> <p>In the latest release, we introduced new features allowing you to customize your browsing experience. You can now set filters in the Art Gallery, including the option to view only your favorite artworks and exclude your own creations.</p> <p>Additionally, we have added convenient options to explore specific members' art collections. With a single click, you can view all the art created by a particular member, visit their profile, and even send them a private message for direct communication.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/111bd6275b622af276cc4440c16cba8f.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We hope these updates make it easier for you to discover and appreciate the amazing artwork within our community. Enjoy the refreshed Art Gallery experience and continue to connect with fellow artists.<br /><br />The Art Gallery can be found <a href="art-gallery?view=all&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><strong><br />b. </strong>We've just added a new button on <a href="my-dashboard" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>My Dashboard</strong></a>. Now, you can kickstart an event in a snap with just one click. No more hassle, just instant event creation at your fingertips!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/fc81588824b83a5b7a2fac1c466fa501.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jun 05, 2023 - v1.45.0</strong></span></p> <p>We have introduced a new feature: <strong>Swap Calendar</strong>. With the Swap Calendar, you can conveniently view your scheduled swaps and stay organized. Each swap is marked with a send-by date, making it easy to keep track of deadlines. Moreover, you now have the option to add personal notes to each swap, allowing you to include specific details or reminders. Simply click on an event in the calendar to access the detailed information of your swap, including the ability to add or view any associated notes.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/f0e2be44a1db9f39ae993c0cfc3965d3.png" alt="" /><br /><br />You calendar can be found <a href="calendar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p> </p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>May 03, 2023 - v1.44.0</strong></span></p> <p>We added a new feature to our platform that event creators can now set a minimum profile points requirement for members who wish to join their events.<br /><br />More info can be found <a href="viewtopic?id=380&title=new-feature-for-event-creators---minimum-profile-points-event-joining&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 30, 2023 - v1.43.0</strong></span></p> <p>We made an improvement to the rating system that allows users to update their ratings for completed swaps. Now, if you've rated a swap and later decide to modify your rating, you can do so easily with our new 're-rate' option. This feature gives you the flexibility to make changes to your ratings as needed, ensuring that your feedback is always accurate and up-to-date.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/3253999a55624a5b039ac284f04b3238.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 29, 2023 - v1.42.0</strong></span></p> <p>We made some changes to our request a random swap and request a random postcard page. We added a "<strong>Regional Swapping</strong>" function to the pages.</p> <p>If you're interested in using our random swap or random postcard swap feature but want to keep costs low, you can use our new Regional Swapping feature.</p> <p>Selecting the Regional option allows you to swap only within your own country or others you selected. This can help you save on international shipping costs and other fees associated with swapping with members from other countries.</p> <p>When selecting countries for Regional Swapping, you can choose up to 3 countries. You'll be able to see how many swap partners are available for the chosen countries.</p> <p>So, if you're looking for a way to swap within your own country and save on costs, consider using our new Regional Swapping feature.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/47216814d707229eead003c6be2350e6.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 19, 2023 - v1.41.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've made several improvements and bug fixes to our platform. We have fixed various bugs across the platform to improve its stability and performance. On the registration page, we have updated it to make it more straightforward which fields are required. Additionally, we have optimized the country and city selector script on the registration page, resulting in faster loading times. <br /><br />We also made some improvements and bug fixes on our forum.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 10, 2023 - v1.40.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> We've improved the "<strong>My Profile</strong>" section on our platform. Now, everything is in one convenient spot, making it easier for you to manage your account. You can easily access different parts of your profile using the tabs provided for smooth navigation.</p> <p>Check it out here: <a href="my-profile" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/my-profile</a></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/11698e20814cc1d3caa0db841255488c.png" alt="" /></p> <p>We're always working to improve your experience, so we hope you find these updates helpful.<br /><br /></p> <p><strong>b.</strong> We've added a new Forum menu button for easier access to our vibrant community discussions. Join the conversation now!</p> <p>Check it out here: <a href="forum" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/forum</a></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/d3ba3cc2d4df453db9363bbd515d7a86.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 05, 2023 - v1.39.1</strong></span></p> <p>Resolved an issue: Reveal random swap addresses were not triggered by an error in the cronjob files due to a platform change where PHP short tags are not supported anymore. We resolved the issue, and it's working again. Apologies for the inconvenience.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Apr 02, 2023 - v1.39.0</strong></span></p> <p>We take spam very seriously and want to ensure that our platform remains a safe and enjoyable space for all users. To achieve this, we have implemented a new messaging policy for our Basic plan that limits the number of messages each member can send.</p> <p>Under the Basic plan, each member can send a maximum of 2 private messages per hour to unique recipients. This policy is in place to prevent spamming and ensure you can communicate effectively with your snail mail partner while keeping unwanted messages at bay. Please note that if we receive reports of spamming or complaints from our members, we reserve the right to disable the private messages function for you.</p> <p>If you wish to send messages to multiple members or exceed the message limit, upgrading your membership is necessary. Our Standard, Premium, or Platinum plans offer additional benefits and features to enhance your experience on our platform.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 25, 2023 - v1.38.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. </strong>We've just added a new feature that allows the event creator to see who each swap has been assigned to as soon as the event is live.<br /><br /><strong>Standard Swap Event</strong> (one on one swaps)</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ba4596d860b11517179df99d037707db.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><strong>Random Swap Event</strong> (mixed up for extra fun)</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/babaf316116fc7aee55fe7dbc0bc264c.png" alt="" /><br /><br /><br /><strong>b.</strong> We've added a new feature to our system that automatically sends an e-mail reminder to the swap creator/sender if their outgoing swap will be registered as received but has yet to be marked as shipped. We understand that sometimes it's easy to forget to click the 'Mark as shipped' button, so this feature is designed to remind you to do so as soon as possible. The receiver can not register your swap as 'received' if the status is not 'shipped' yet.</p> <p>Rest assured that this process is still the same, and marking your swap as shipped is still required for the receiver to complete the registration process and rate your swap. However, if you forget, our system will automatically send you an e-mail reminder to help ensure a smooth swapping experience for all parties involved. As soon as you change the status to shipped, an e-mail notification will be sent back to the receiver so they know they can rate your swap.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 19, 2023 - v1.37.0</strong></span></p> <p>This a quick update to let you know we've updated our rating system for swaps. From now on, we're using a 2-decimal rating scale, which means you'll get a more precise average rating for your overall swapping activity. This change will make things fairer for everyone and give you a better idea of how well you're doing in the swapping community. We're excited to offer this improved rating system and hope it enhances your swapping experience.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/2e95343102f520912cb82d3141bf18c7.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 18, 2023 - v1.36.0</strong></span></p> <p>We just released a new feature that will enhance your experience and give you more control over unwanted private messages. The feature to report and block members is now available, and we will closely monitor its effectiveness to ensure your safety and comfort while using our platform.</p> <p>With this new feature, you can easily report a user and block them from sending you further messages. You can report a user by providing a reason for the report and then blocking them directly from their user profile or private message. If you report a user via private message, the conversation will also be deleted, making it inaccessible to both parties.</p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 17, 2023 - v1.35.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are excited to introduce our new feature, <strong>Personal Rating</strong>, which allows you to rate how well a swap met your preferences and how much you enjoyed it. This feature will help your swap partner understand your preferences and improve their future swaps accordingly.</p> <p>We encourage you to provide constructive and specific feedback, even if personalization isn't required. Remember, your heart ratings are only visible to your swap partner, so feel free to be honest and detailed.</p> <p>We hope this new feature will foster a positive swapping community and make your swapping experiences even better. Don't forget to check the feedback you receive to improve your own swaps!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/e8bb0cd3e72c17aa7b279e906f586955.png" alt="" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/39586339678667eb8a1601b033021faa.png" alt="" /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 11, 2023 - v1.34.0</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> To ensure that everyone can participate in our standard swap events, we have implemented a new feature to prevent the automatic removal of the last signed-up member when the event closes with an odd number of participants.</p> <p>The creator of a standard event (which requires an even number of participants) will receive an email notification one day before the closing date. If there are uneven numbers of participants at that time, those members will be asked to invite friends they think would enjoy participating in the event.</p> <p>If you set the event to a regional area, you can only invite friends from that specific region. If you set the event to an international area, you can invite any friend who is not yet participating.</p> <p>Furthermore, we have added an option to automatically close the event registration once the next member signs up. This helps prevent any participants from being removed due to an uneven number. With these new features, we aim to make our swap events more enjoyable for everyone.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/7d442df01942b430672f64cf5111cd86.png" alt="" /></p> <p>This option is only available one day before the closing date, and when we notice that uneven members are joining at that time.</p> <p><strong>b.</strong> We have enhanced the private messaging system with new features, including the ability to use text formatting such as bold and italic, create lists, share images, and add clickable links.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/88d7163cebe4964ac3fae02b74b724e6.png" alt="" /></p> <p>Want to send a private message to other members? Click <a href="private-messages?&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>!<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 08, 2023 - v1.33.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've just implemented a small change that allows you to check the list of members who have signed up for a specific event. So, if you're interested in seeing who else will be attending, simply head over to the event page to find out!<br /><br />We've also included arrow keys for the member list when more than ten people are signed up for an event, making it super easy to navigate left and right without having to scroll through a long list. With a tap, you go to the next slide without the need to refresh the page.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/f670a373a591bfcc9924c73becccfa2d.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Mar 03, 2023 - v1.32.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are happy to announce to our new game swap feature <strong>Tag, you're it!</strong> is LIVE!</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/8aef7ba5205162cf06150d185c4154f9.png" alt="" width="527" height="331" /></p> <p>Are you tired of sending the same old snail mail and want to connect with people worldwide? If so, the "Tag, you're it" game on Snail Mail Friends might just be what you need! This exciting and creative activity is a fun twist on the classic game of tag. It allows you to exchange unique and personalized snail mail with people from around the globe.<br /><br />Read our guide <a href="exploring-tag-youre-it" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a> and view all current games by checking out <a href="view-events?view=all&mode=list&sorting=new&type=special-events&page=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">this</a> link.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 29, 2023 - v1.31.0</strong></span></p> <p>To improve user communication, we've added a new feature on the profile page that enables private messaging and we've made it easier for you to access your swap request by including a direct link to it in the confirmation email.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 17, 2023 - v1.30.2</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a. </strong>Resolved an issue: The acceptance of a new personal swap was halted due to an error that occurs when the description includes a single quote, causing the script to stop at that point and the user to receive an error message. As a result, the new swap could not be saved in the database.</p> <p><strong>b.</strong> To improve readability while composing a new private message, you can now resize the textarea box. As a result, the member image will move to the top, creating a wider textarea box.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 15, 2023 - v1.30.1</strong></span></p> <p><strong>a.</strong> Going forward, the system has been updated to prevent the '<strong>Write address label</strong>' step from being initiated until the recipient's address has been revealed by a random swap which should help ensure a smoother and more efficient user experience.<br /><br /><strong>b.</strong> Resolved an issue: Fixed a bug where only one notification was being displayed, even though multiple notifications were available.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/bd0401aaf8783ae0db749caa6fbfa1f5.png" alt="" /></p> <p><strong>c.</strong> Members who are permitted to write guest blog posts on our platform now have a designated icon on their user profile page.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/5261b6616e75533da85898671783005c.png" alt="" /></p> <p><strong>d.</strong> I have added two additional fields to the event creation page, allowing users to input the name of the credits for the images they use and a link to their social media or website. Both fields are optional and will be displayed on the event page itself as a clickable link.</p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/b4c6b37cde27927542ddab31a7323e64.png" alt="" /></p> <p><img class="img-responsive" src="images/48f0e9f4cb22b9097027ede927b49020.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 15, 2023 - v1.30.0</strong></span></p> <p>Stay in the loop with the latest new events on Snail Mail Friends by enabling email and/or browser notifications for new event announcements. This feature is enabled by default, but if you prefer not to receive these notifications, you can easily disable them in your <a href="notification-settings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Notification Settings</a>.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 13, 2023 - v1.29.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are happy to announce to our new feature <strong>Unity Hubs</strong> is LIVE! <br /><br />Snail Mail Friends is a community where you can connect with others who share your interests and passions. If you're looking to bring together a group of people who share similar interests, creating a Unity Hub is a fun and easy way to do so.<br /><br />More information can be found <a href="exploring-unity-hubs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 11, 2023 - v1.28.0</strong></span></p> <p>We've made a small improvement to our platform! You can now find a <strong>feedback button</strong> on every page (bottom left), making it easy to share your thoughts and suggestions and report any bugs you may encounter.</p> <p>If you're logged in, the system will automatically recognize you, so you can quickly type in your feedback and press send. Your feedback is valuable to us, and this new feature makes it simple for you to connect with us.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/19b17bfe0b7682014facf89e4861179d.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 09, 2023 - v1.27.0</strong></span></p> <p>Made some improvements to our "<a href="latest-forum-posts" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Latest Posts</strong></a>" page on our forum.</p> <p>We realized that the previous version of the page wasn't providing the best possible overview of the latest posts. Now, the page is much more organized and provides a clearer view of the latest posts in each specific topic.<br /><br />You'll notice that the posts are listed in a more intuitive and user-friendly way, making it easier to keep track of the latest discussions<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/c567703129578bfd835ecef43a6858a5.png" alt="" width="443" height="394" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 29, 2023 - v1.26.1</strong></span></p> <p>Resolved an issue: A problem was encountered when attempting to load additional comments on a user story. Upon pressing the "<strong>Load more comments</strong>" link, new comments were not appearing as expected.<br /><br /></p> <p>We want your activation experience to be smooth and hassle-free, so we've introduced a new resend option in our registration process. If you haven't received your activation email, use this feature to send it again. </p> <p>We understand that emails can sometimes go missing or end up in your spam folder, but with the <strong>resend option</strong>, you can quickly resolve the issue and activate your account without delay.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Feb 06, 2023 - v1.25.0</strong></span></p> <p>We are happy to announce that due to popular demand, we are now offering two free swap credits to all BASIC plan members to test Snail Mail Friends before upgrading to a paid membership plan.<br /><br />Explore our services through personal or random swaps. Start sending <a href="send-a-swap" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>!<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 29, 2023 - v1.24.0</span><br /></strong><br />Introduced a new page "<strong>Send a Swap</strong>" where all the swap modes are listed like: <em>Request a personal swap</em>, <em>Request a personal postcard</em>, <em>Request a random swap</em>, <em>Request a random postcard</em>, <em>Send a One-Way-Postcard</em>.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/3a90459bd78831b9a0236a6e218e1fdc.png" alt="" />  <br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/abdebb6d26cb57429a87bea1c3b692e9.png" alt="" /><br /><br />Additionally, we have added a new feature to the Personal Swap and Personal Postcard mode, the Randomizer button. This button will randomize the dropdown menu of your friend list so that the computer can select a friend for you. This way, you can still have a personalized exchange but with an added element of surprise. This feature is perfect for those who want to add a bit of fun and excitement to their exchange experience but still want to swap with their friends.<br /><br />The page can be found here: <a href="send-a-swap" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.snailmailfriends.com/send-a-swap</a><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 21, 2023 - v1.23.0</span><br /></strong><br />Cents per day added to our pricing. Daily cost now more clearly displayed in our pricing information.<br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/eea57ac1ee026f31a57f35ad46bb10c2.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 20, 2023 - v1.22.1</span><br /></strong><br />Resolved an issue: Access to the swap information was restricted for an angel.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 17, 2023 - v1.22.0</span><br /></strong><br />Introducing a new feature: <strong>One-Way postcard sending</strong>!<br /><br />This feature is ideal for those who want to send postcards to people they don't know or a friend. This feature allows you to send a postcard to a random person without requiring approval. The recipient is not required to send a postcard back to you, making it a one-way postcard-sending experience. This feature is excellent for sending postcards to people you might not know and getting a smile on their faces.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 15, 2023 - v1.21.0</span><br /></strong><br />Implemented a logout feature in the menu with a dedicated button.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/1a1c180866be580ba27c48ceb6f48c40.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jan 14, 2023 - v1.20.0</strong></span><br /><br />We have implemented a feature allowing the poll owner to view the participants who have cast their votes.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/19f67d4770392de3a3d95b810dfd7db3.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 13, 2023 - v1.19.1</span><br /></strong><br />We resolved an issue with external links causing excessive loading of code due to the pop-up being triggered for all links, including internal ones.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/0b1766db7568a3c144fc634dd7894757.png" alt="" /><br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 13, 2023 - v1.19.0</span><br /></strong><br />Changed the size of our emoticons, they look much better now.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Jan 08, 2023 - v1.18.0</strong></span><br /><br />The option to purchase gift vouchers has been added to our platform.<br /><br /><img class="img-responsive" src="images/ce28d1af57b438a7fe45d5da06d6f42b.png" alt="" /><br /><br />The Digital Snail Mail Friends gift voucher is ideal for treating yourself, your family, or your friends. The gift voucher is valid for all our plans and does not expire. You can add a personal message and choose a delivery date for the voucher, so it's possible to buy it in advance and get it delivered on the selected date. Never miss a birthday anymore <img style="width: 25px; height: 25px; margin: 0 .05em 0 .1em; vertical-align: -5px;" draggable="false" src="https://snailmailfriends.com/twemoji/1f609.png" alt="😉" data-emoticon="true" />.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Jan 03, 2023 - v1.17.1</span><br /></strong><br />Resolved an issue: Corrected an issue preventing year 2023 from being selected in the calendar.<br /><br /></p> <hr /> <p> </p> <p>Please note that this post will be updated regularly as new changes and updates are made to the platform. We welcome any feedback or suggestions you may have.</p> <p>Thank you for your continued support.<br />Marco</p>