Unlike most social media platforms,Snapchatis focused more onmessagingthan an algorithm ordering a timeline of posts. While Snapchat has some public-facing features, the platform has become synonymous with sending fun photo messages calledSnaps. But, part of Snapchat’s charm is the way messages disappear after opening and Stories after 24 hours. That adds some urgency to the social platform, leading some to wonder if there’s a way to access Snapchat without the app.
Snapchat on the web allows users to access some of the platform’s features without the app. However, the web-based version of Snapchat has more limitations, chief among these being the inability to actually view a Snap sent by a friend. The web platform also isn’t a workaround to not having an account – as the browser version still requires users to log in or register for a new account first.
But, some features on the web-based Snapchat can be more convenient, like video chatting with a laptop rather than holding your smartphone up for an hour, or simply not having to get up from the couch when you leave your phone in the other room. Here’s how to access Snapchat without the app, along with other tricks and tips for using the web-based version of the popular social platform.
How Snapchat works and whether Gen Z even uses it anymore
Frequent updates means Snapchat looks and works almost nothing like it originally did. Here’s how to use it today and whether it’s relevant anymore.
Can you access Snapchat without the app?
Yes, but there are restrictions when using Snapchat for computers
Snapchat is a mobile app first and users will find the most features by using the platform this way. However, Snapchat does offer a web-based version that can be accessed using a web browser.
The web browser has a key limitation in place that makes this version quite a bit different from the app: Snaps cannot be opened in the web-based app. If you received a text message that you were sent a Snap but don’t have the app, the web browser version isn’t a solution to see the image.
What can you do with Snapchat on a computer then? While you can’t see a Snap, you can send one from a laptop using a web browser. The web version also supports video chatting, audio calls, and text messages.
Snapchat for computers: How to use Snapchat without the app
You’ll need a computer, a web browser, and an internet connection
To access Snapchat without the app, you’ll need a computer, as the web-based version doesn’t work on mobile devices. But if you have a laptop or desktop fired up, the only other thing you need is a web browser and an internet connection.
How to add a 3D Bitmoji avatar to your Snapchat profile
Snapchat has updated user profiles to include 3D Bitmoji avatars. Previously, Bitmoji profile avatars were only available in 2D.
How to send a Snap without the Snapchat app
On Snapchat for the web, click on the camera icon
Once inside the web-based Snapchat, you may still send Snaps (though you can’t open them). Here’s how.
How to allow or prevent someone from saving your snaps in Snapchat chats
If you’re in a group chat on Snapchat and don’t want people to save the snaps you’re sending them, this is how to stop it.
How to start a Snapchat chat from a web browser
Snapchat has three ways to chat from a computer
While you can’t see Snaps, you can still chat with text, images, voice or video calls. Here’s how.
How to delete your Snapchat account (and what happens to your data)
Are you trying to delete your Snapchat account and can’t figure out how? Let’s walk you through the steps and explain what happens.
Q: Can you open a Snapchat without an account?
Snaps can only be opened in the mobile app, not the web-based version. Since you need an account to use the mobile app, you can’t open a Snap without first downloading the app and creating your own account.
Q: Can you take a screenshot on Snapchat for the web?
While Snapchat is designed for disappearing messages, there are ways for those who receive your Snap to save it. Like with a mobile device, you can take a screenshot when using Snapchat on a computer. The company advises users not to send anything they wouldn’t want someone to take a screenshot of.
