9 Hidden Snapchat Tricks You Didn’t Know About
Snapchat has revolutionized the way we communicate, allowing users to share ephemeral moments with friends and family. While many people are familiar with the basic features of Snapchat, there are numerous hidden tricks that can enhance the user experience. Here, we delve into nine lesser-known features that can help you get more out of your Snapchat usage.
1. Custom Filters and Lenses
While Snapchat is famous for its wide array of filters and lenses, few users know that they can create their own. This feature allows you to design custom filters for events, parties, or personal branding.
- How to Create a Custom Filter:
- Open Snapchat and tap on your profile icon.
- Scroll down and select “Filters & Lenses.”
- Choose “Create Your Own” and follow the prompts to customize your filter.
- Set the date, time, and location where your filter will be active, then purchase it.
This feature can elevate special occasions and add a personal touch to your snaps.
2. Snapchat Map for Local Events
The Snap Map feature is not just for sharing locations; itโs also a powerful tool for discovering local events. By zooming into your area on the map, you can see Snaps shared publicly by other users.
- How to Use Snap Map:
- Pinch the camera screen to access the Snap Map.
- View hotspots in your area where events or gatherings are happening.
- Tap on the hotspots to see stories related to those locations.
This feature is particularly useful for meeting new people or discovering local happenings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
3. Saving Snaps to Memories
Many users forget that Snapchat allows you to save snaps directly to your Memories instead of simply letting them disappear after viewing. This can be handy for preserving moments you might want to revisit later.
- How to Save Snaps to Memories:
- Before sending or posting your Snap, tap the save icon (downward arrow) at the bottom of the screen.
- Select “Memories” to save your snap privately.
You can access these saved snaps anytime by swiping up from the camera screen.
4. Using Snapchat as a News Source
Snapchat is increasingly becoming a platform for news and updates. Users can subscribe to various publishers and discover stories related to their interests.
- How to Access Discover:
- Swipe right from the camera screen to access the Discover section.
- Browse through various publishers and topics to stay updated.
This feature allows you to get bite-sized news in a format that fits your lifestyle, making it easier to keep informed on current events.
5. Snapchat Group Chats
Snapchat allows you to create group chats for multiple friends, making it easy to share snaps and messages with several people at once.
- How to Create a Group Chat:
- Swipe right to access your friends list.
- Tap on the “New Chat” icon and select multiple friends to add to the group.
- Name your group for easier identification.
Group chats can be a fun way to share moments and communicate with friends collectively.
6. Voice and Video Notes
While texting is convenient, sometimes a voice or video note can convey emotions and nuances better than text. Snapchat supports voice and video notes, adding a personal touch to your conversations.
- How to Send Voice and Video Notes:
- Open a chat with a friend.
- Press and hold the microphone icon to record a voice note.
- For video notes, tap and hold the camera button to record video while in the chat.
This feature can enhance communication, especially when you want to share more than just a quick text.
7. Shortcuts for Quick Snaps
Snapchat’s camera has various shortcuts to help you capture moments quickly. For instance, tapping the screen will focus the camera, while swiping left or right will switch between front and back cameras.
- Camera Shortcuts:
- Tap the screen to focus.
- Double-tap to switch cameras.
- Swipe left to access different lenses.
These shortcuts help streamline the snapping process, ensuring you donโt miss important moments.
8. Memories Search Function
Snapchat’s Memories feature not only allows you to save snaps but also provides a powerful search function to find specific memories quickly. This is particularly useful when you have a vast library of snaps and want to find a particular one.
- How to Search Memories:
- Swipe up from the camera screen to access Memories.
- Tap the search icon at the top and enter keywords related to your snap.
This feature can save you time and help you reminisce on specific moments without scrolling through countless snaps.
9. Bitmoji Integration
If youโre a fan of Bitmojis, integrating them into your Snapchat experience can add a fun element to your chats and snaps. You can use your Bitmoji as stickers, which can be customized to represent different moods and situations.
- How to Use Bitmoji:
- Link your Bitmoji account with Snapchat through the settings.
- Access your Bitmoji stickers from the sticker icon when composing a snap or chat.
This integration allows for personalized expressions in your communications, making your snaps and chats more engaging.
Conclusion
Snapchat is a dynamic platform with a plethora of hidden features designed to enhance user experience. By exploring these nine tricks, users can maximize their Snapchat interactions, from creating custom filters to leveraging the Snap Map for local events. Each feature not only adds a layer of functionality but also enriches the way we connect with friends and the world around us. Whether you are a casual user or a Snapchat aficionado, these insights can elevate your Snapchat game and keep your interactions fresh and exciting.