How to Use the Snapchat App on Windows
Reading Time: 3 minutesNow that Snapchat has a Windows app, here’s what to know about how to use it.
Snapchat has officially launched a Windows app, giving users a new way to access the social media platform. Up until this launch, the closest users got to an official Windows app was an emulated web app version. Though, it was prone to security and privacy risks.
Now that Snapchat is officially available on Windows, how do you access it, it is the same as the mobile version, and is it worth downloading?
How to Get Snapchat on Windows
By now, users should be aware of what Snapchat is and how the app works on mobile. But users can also access it easily on Windows.
In November 2022, Snapchat finally released its official app for Windows on the Microsoft Store. And for the long-waiting users, the wait was over.
To find the Snapchat app, you can search for the store on your browser and be redirected to the app store when you click Get in app store once you’ve found Snapchat. Alternatively, you can search for Microsoft Store directly in the search bar in your taskbar.
The app is free to install, and the file size is only 1.2MB. The app supports Windows 10 and higher but requires the newest version of Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome. Once the app has been installed, you can open it and begin the login process.
Download: Snapchat for Windows (Free)
How to Log In and Use the Snapchat Windows App
The standard login page will appear, where you can sign in to your account or create an account if you don’t have one yet. Enter your username or email address and password, and click the Log in button.
Next, assuming you have two-factor authentication, you will be asked to enter a six-digit verification code sent to your mobile. Enter the code and click the Submit button. There is an option to resend a new code should the original code fail to send.
Once your verification is complete, you must confirm your session in your Snapchat mobile app. Open the mobile app and when the prompt appears, click the Yes button to verify it is you accessing Snapchat on a new device. This will complete the verification process.
If you logged in successfully, you will now be able to use Snapchat on Windows. The interface consists of your messages with friends on the left-hand side and the camera which you can turn on by clicking the camera icon on the right-hand side.
How Does the Snapchat Windows App Differ?
The crucial thing to be mindful of is that the app works as a progressive web app that primarily focuses on its chat features. This limits how much you can do. However, your device treats the app like any other app in the Start Menu.
Yes, you can still communicate with your friends via text messages and make video and voice calls. You can also use the camera to take pictures of yourself and use the limited lenses to change your appearance via your webcam. But there are other limitations too.
For instance, there is no option to post your snap(s) to My Story or Snap Map for your friends who can see your posts, depending on your settings, to view. Speaking of Snap Map, no such feature is available on the Windows app.
Other features such as Snapchat Discover, Memories, and adding and removing friends are also unavailable.
On the other hand, there is an advantage. Using the app on a larger screen allows you to see and exchange messages easily, especially if you find it difficult on a small screen. And thanks to your keyboard, you can type your text messages out more quickly.
For the most part, the Windows version lacks many of the mobile app’s main features, which might be disappointing for those expecting more.
Can the Windows App Replace Mobile?
The move from mobile to Windows isn’t ideal, given its limitations. But it is handy for those who only use the app for exchanging text messages and photos with friends and try out the lenses when using Windows.
Nonetheless, the Windows app is beneficial for those who only use Snapchat for communication, not for its other features found on the mobile app. Though not for everyone, the Windows app is always handy to have.