Snapchat

About This App

Snapchat is a multimedia messaging app that brings conversations to life with photos, videos, filters, and real-time experiences. With Snapchat, you can send snaps (photos or videos) that disappear after they’re viewed, chat instantly, post stories for 24 hours, and explore the latest from friends, creators, and brands.

Whether you’re using lenses to make your selfies pop, trying augmented reality filters, or creating Bitmoji avatars — Snapchat turns communication into a fun and expressive experience. It’s private, playful, and perfect for staying close with your friends.

Platforms

• Android (APK)

• iOS (iPhone and iPad)

More Apps Like This

• Instagram

• TikTok

• Facebook

• Threads

• BeReal

• Messenger

Developer

Snap Inc.

Features

• Send Snaps: Photos and videos that disappear after viewing

• Stories: Share daily moments visible for 24 hours

• Chat: Real-time text, voice, and video messaging

• Lenses and Filters: Augmented reality face filters and effects

• Snap Map: See where your friends are (if they choose to share location)

• Memories: Save snaps and stories privately for future viewing

• Bitmoji: Personalized cartoon avatars for chats and stories

• Spotlight: Discover trending short videos from the community

• Streaks: Keep track of daily snaps exchanged with friends

• Cameos: Animated selfie stickers to express emotions

Controls

• Swipe-based navigation (Camera, Chat, Stories, Spotlight, Map)

• Tap to take a photo or hold to record a video

• Search bar for friends, content, and filters

• Privacy options for who can contact or view your stories

• Chat settings to auto-delete messages after viewing or 24 hours

• Filter and effect management from the camera screen

• In-app parental and safety tools for teens

Release Date

First launched in 2011
Updated frequently with new AR features, chat tools, and creative effects

FAQ

Is Snapchat free?
Yes, Snapchat is free to download and use. Some optional premium features are available through Snapchat+.

Do Snaps really disappear?
Yes, Snaps automatically disappear after they’ve been viewed — unless saved by you or the recipient (you’ll be notified if they do).

What is Snapchat+?
Snapchat+ is a subscription with experimental and exclusive features like story rewatch count, custom icons, and friend pinning.

Can I use Snapchat on multiple devices?
Snapchat is mainly designed for one mobile device per account to protect your security and privacy.

Is Snapchat safe for kids?
Snapchat is recommended for users age 13 and older. Parental controls and content limits are available via Family Center.

Rating

4.2+ stars across global app stores

Released

2011
Major features like Stories, Lenses, and Spotlight added over time

Technology

• Built around camera-first communication

• Augmented Reality (AR) with real-time filters and effects

• Cloud-based storage for Memories

• Custom machine learning algorithms for face tracking and recommendations

• Advanced privacy protections including encrypted Snaps and chats

Platform

• Android

• iOS

• Not available for desktop use beyond login for account settings

Data Safety

Snapchat is built with user privacy and safety in mind:

• Messages delete by default after viewing

• Screenshots are tracked and send notifications

• Two-factor authentication supported

• Parental controls through Family Center

• Compliant with privacy regulations like GDPR and COPPA

• Users can manage permissions, ad settings, and block/report inappropriate content

How to Use Snapchat

• Download the app from the Play Store or App Store
• Sign up with your phone number and create your Bitmoji avatar
• Swipe to access the camera, take a Snap, and send it to friends
• Post Snaps to your Story for all your friends to see for 24 hours
• Use filters, lenses, stickers, music, and text to personalize your content
• Discover new content on the Spotlight and Snap Map tabs
• Chat with friends using text, voice, or video
• Manage privacy, location, and friend list in the settings