Snapchat updates automatically on most phones, but you can force it to install right now
Snapchat installs new versions in the background on its own schedule, usually within a few days of release. If you want the update today instead of waiting, you can open your phone's app store and install it manually in about two minutes. The steps differ slightly between iPhone and Android, but both take you to the same place: your device's built-in app store.
Most people never need to do this — the automatic updates work fine. But if you are having a problem that the new version fixes, or you want a feature that just rolled out, forcing the update yourself gets you there faster than waiting for your phone to do it on its own schedule.
Key Takeaways
- iPhone users open the App Store app, tap their profile icon, scroll to Snapchat, and tap Update if it appears.
- Android users open Google Play Store, search for Snapchat, and tap Update if the button is visible.
- If no Update button appears, you already have the latest version installed.
- Snapchat updates automatically in the background, so you do not have to check manually unless you want the new version immediately.
- Restarting Snapchat after the update completes ensures new features load correctly.
How to update Snapchat on iPhone
Open the App Store app on your home screen. Tap the profile icon in the top right corner — it looks like a circle with your photo or initials inside. This takes you to your account page.
Scroll down until you see Snapchat in the list of apps you have installed. If an Update button appears next to Snapchat's name, tap it. The app will download and install in the background. If you see Open instead, you already have the latest version.
Wait for the button to change back to Open, which means the update is complete. You can close the App Store and open Snapchat normally. The new version will load the next time you launch the app.
How to update Snapchat on Android
Open Google Play Store, the app with a colorful triangle icon. Tap the profile icon in the top right corner — it is usually a circle with your initial or photo. Select Manage apps and device from the menu.
Tap the Manage tab at the top. Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find Snapchat. When you see it, tap on Snapchat's name to open its page. If an Update button appears, tap it. The download will start immediately.
The installation happens in the background. You will see the button change to Open when it is finished. Close Google Play Store and open Snapchat to start using the new version.
What to do if the Update button does not appear
If you see Open instead of Update, your phone already has the latest version of Snapchat installed. This happens when your phone updated the app automatically in the background, or when you are already running the newest release.
Check back in a few days if you are looking for a specific new feature. Snapchat releases updates on its own schedule, and your phone may not have the absolute newest version for a day or two after it becomes available. If you want to be certain you have the latest version, you can check again in a week.
Restarting Snapchat after the update
After the update finishes, close Snapchat completely if it is still open. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen on iPhone, or tap the back button repeatedly on Android, until Snapchat is no longer running in the background.
Wait a few seconds, then open Snapchat again. This forces the app to load all the new code and features. Sometimes new features do not appear until you restart the app, so this step matters if you are looking for something specific that just came out.
Why Snapchat updates happen automatically
Your phone is set to download app updates automatically by default. Snapchat takes advantage of this — when the company releases a new version, your phone downloads it in the background, usually overnight or when you are on WiFi. This keeps the app current without you having to think about it.
The automatic system works well for most people. You only need to manually update if you want the new version immediately, or if your phone's automatic updates are turned off. If you have turned off automatic updates in your phone's settings, you will need to update Snapchat manually every time a new version comes out.
Troubleshooting if the update will not install
If you tap Update and nothing happens, or the button disappears and reappears, try closing the app store completely. On iPhone, swipe up from the bottom. On Android, tap the back button. Wait 30 seconds, then open the app store again and try the update once more.
If the update still will not start, check that you have WiFi or a strong mobile data connection. Large app updates sometimes fail on weak connections. Connect to WiFi, close the app store, and try again after a minute.
If you see an error message, restart your phone completely. Power it off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on. Then open the app store and attempt the update again. This clears temporary problems that sometimes block installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Snapchat update take to install?
Most updates download and install in under two minutes on a WiFi connection. Mobile data can take longer depending on your signal strength. Once the button changes to Open, the update is complete and ready to use.
Do I lose my messages or memories when I update Snapchat?
No. Updates only change the app's code and features. Your messages, memories, and account information stay exactly as they are. Updating is completely safe and does not delete anything.
Can I use Snapchat while the update is installing?
On most phones, yes — the update happens in the background and does not lock you out of the app. However, the app may run slowly or behave oddly until the installation finishes. It is better to wait until the update completes before using Snapchat heavily.
What if my phone does not have enough storage space for the update?
Snapchat updates are usually small, but if your phone is nearly full, the installation may fail. Delete photos, videos, or apps you do not use to free up space, then try the update again. You can always reinstall deleted apps later.
Why does Snapchat keep asking me to update?
If you see repeated update prompts, your automatic updates may be turned off. Go to your phone's Settings app, find the app store settings, and turn on automatic updates. This prevents the app from nagging you and keeps Snapchat current without your involvement.