Snapchat is a multimedia messaging app that is used by millions of people across the world. It is known for its user base, particularly among younger demographics. It has influenced the way people communicate and share moments, leading to the adoption of similar features by other social media platforms. The typical features of this app include snap, stories, snap map, chat, lenses and filters, memories and snapstreaks.
Snaps are designed to disappear after being viewed by the recipient, usually within a few seconds, although users can choose to replay a snap once. Users can also post snaps to their “Story,” which is a collection of snaps visible to their friends for 24 hours. Snaps sent back and forth between users on consecutive days can create a “streak,” which is indicated by a fire emoji and the number of days the streak has lasted.
Users can take a picture using the Snapchat camera and send it directly to their friends or add it to their Story or record a video, typically up to 60 seconds long, and send it to friends. Videos can be recorded by holding down the capture button.
Features –
- Snaps are designed to disappear after being viewed. A photo snap typically lasts up to 10 seconds, while a video snap plays for its duration.
- After being viewed, snaps are no longer accessible unless saved by the sender or recipient.
- Users can add various elements to their snaps, including – Filters, lenses, texts, drawings, and stickers.
- Users can send snaps to individual friends, or groups of friends, or add them to their Stories for all friends to see for 24 hours.
Viewing and interacting with snap –
- Notification: When a user receives a snap, they get a notification. They can open the snap by tapping on the notification or directly within the app.
- Viewing: Once opened, the snap will play for its duration (up to 10 seconds for a photo or the length of a video). Users can tap to skip through snaps or hold to view them longer.
- Replying: Users can reply to snaps with a new snap, a chat message, or an emoji reaction.
- Saving: Users can save their own snaps to Memories or their devices. Screenshots of received snaps are possible, but the sender is notified if a screenshot is taken.
