How to delete Snapchat: What happens when you deactivate the app?
Snapchat is an instant messaging app that has been around since July 8, 2011.
The app stands out against other social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook and X because messaging is primarily done through photos or videos, and the messages you send to friends are only available for a few seconds before they disappear.
That is unless you screenshot, which sends a notification to the original sender.
Snapchat includes stories and a chat feature that you can save, delete after viewing or delete after 24 hours.
According to Snapchat’s third-quarter financial report, there are 406 million daily Snapchat users. The platform has tried to integrate new features, such as an AI-powered chatbot and a subscription-based service offering exclusive features.
Here's what to know about deleting Snapchat.
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How to delete Snapchat
Delete Snapchat account on Android or through the web:
Log in to the Snapchat accounts portal.
Select “Delete my account.”
Enter your password.
Click “Continue” to confirm your account deletion.
Delete Snapchat account on iPhone/IOS:
Select the Settings button in the Profile screen of the app.
Scroll to “Account Actions.”
Click “Delete Account.”
Log in to the Snapchat accounts portal.
Tap “Delete my account.”
Enter your password.
Select “Continue” to confirm your account deletion.
How do I permanently delete my Snapchat account?
Following the steps above will permanently delete your Snapchat account. However, Snapchat notes that some deleted account data is kept for legal, security and business needs.
How to deactivate Snapchat temporarily?
Deactivating Snapchat uses the same steps as deleting. The only difference is you confirm your account for deactivation, not deletion. Your account will be deactivated for 30 days before it is permanently deleted. So log in within those initial 30 days if you want to reactivate it.
How can I delete the Snapchat app?
You can delete the Snapchat app the way you delete any other apps on your phone or device.
Deleting Snapchat app on Android:
Open the Google Play Store app.
Select the Profile Icon at the top right.
Click on “Manage apps and devices” then “Manage.”
Choose the name of the app you want to delete.
Tap “Uninstall.”
Deleting Snapchat app on iPhone/IOS:
Touch and hold the app on the Home Screen.
Select “Remove App.”
Click either “Delete App” or “Remove from Home Screen” for whichever action you’d like to take. Removing from the home screen will eliminate the icon but still keep the app in your App Library.
Can I delete my Snapchat instantly?
Snapchat initially deactivates your account for 30 days, after which the deletion process will start and complete after 30 days. Meaning, it takes about 60 days to permanently delete your Snapchat account.
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What happens when you deactivate Snapchat?
After deactivating or deleting your Snapchat account, you have 30 days to change your mind. You can reactivate your account before the 30 days are over by logging in again. Otherwise, Snapchat will begin the deletion process and your account will not be recoverable.
The deletion process fully completes 60 days after your request is submitted.
Reach the reporter at dina.kaur@arizonarepublic.com. Follow @dina_kaur on X, formerly known as Twitter.
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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How to delete Snapchat: What happens when you deactivate the app?
