Snapchat is known for its fleeting content and privacy-focused features, including notifying users when someone takes a screenshot of a Snap or chat message. While this feature protects users’ privacy, there are certain reasons someone may want to screenshot content discreetly. Whether it’s saving an important memory or retaining a meaningful message, capturing a screenshot without sending a notification can be helpful. However, it’s crucial to respect others’ privacy and use such methods ethically. Here are six ways people can screenshot on Snapchat without the other person knowing.
1. Use Airplane Mode
This is one of the most commonly used tricks. When a Snap is loaded, turn on Airplane Mode on the phone and then capture the screenshot. Here’s how:
- Open Snapchat and wait for the image or chat to load fully.
- Turn on Airplane Mode to disconnect the device from the internet.
- Go back to Snapchat and take the screenshot.
- After a few seconds, log out of Snapchat before turning off Airplane Mode to prevent it from syncing the screenshot data.
While this method works in many cases, Snapchat may still notify once the internet is reconnected if not done correctly.
2. Use Another Device
One of the safest and most foolproof methods is simply using another device to photograph or record the Snap:
- Open Snapchat and navigate to the Snap you want to save.
- Use a second phone or camera to take a picture or video of the screen.
Since there is no direct screenshot being taken on Snapchat itself, the sender will not receive a notification. The quality may not be ideal, but it’s effective.
3. Use Screen Recording (iOS or Android)
Some users attempt to use the built-in screen recording feature. However, Snapchat often detects this and sends a notification. A workaround is to:
- Start screen recording before opening Snapchat.
- Play the Snap or chat while recording.
- Immediately exit and stop the recording.
- Edit the video to extract the screenshot frame needed.
This method may or may not get detected depending on Snapchat’s updates, so proceed with caution.
4. Clear Cache, Then Screenshot
This trick involves clever manipulation of Snapchat’s data files. Here’s how it’s done (Android works best with this method):
- Open the Snap but do not screenshot yet.
- Turn on Airplane Mode and then take the screenshot.
- Navigate to the app settings and clear cache.
- Log out and close the app before going back online.
Because the cache is cleared before re-connecting, the screenshot event detection may never be triggered.
5. Use Google Assistant (Android Only)
This method is exclusive to Android users. Google Assistant can be prompted to take a screenshot, which sometimes bypasses Snapchat’s detection system:
- Navigate to the Snap you want to capture.
- Long press the home button or say “Hey Google.”
- Say or type “Take a screenshot.”
The captured image is saved to your gallery. However, newer Android and Snapchat updates can still trigger a notification.
6. Third-Party Apps (Not Recommended)
There are various third-party apps claiming to allow stealthy screenshotting. Apps like SnapSaver or Phantom (for jailbroken iPhones) were popular. But:
- They violate Snapchat’s terms of service.
- They are often unreliable or lead to account bans.
- They can pose serious security and privacy risks.
It’s best to avoid this route unless you’re fully aware of the risks involved.
Conclusion
There are multiple ways users attempt to take screenshots on Snapchat without informing the other person, but each comes with limitations or risks. The safest and most ethical option is always to ask for permission. If you choose to proceed, be sure to respect privacy and avoid misuse of sensitive content.
FAQs
- Q: Will putting my phone in Airplane Mode always prevent Snapchat notifications?
A: Not always. You must also log out of your Snapchat account or clear the cache before reconnecting to avoid detection. - Q: Is using another phone to take a photo considered illegal?
A: It isn’t illegal, but it can be unethical if you’re violating someone’s privacy. Always consider consent first. - Q: Can Snapchat detect screen recordings?
A: Yes, Snapchat often detects built-in screen recordings and sends a notification if it recognizes the action. - Q: Are third-party apps safe for taking secret screenshots?
A: Most third-party apps are risky and violate Snapchat’s terms, which could lead to account ban or data exposure. - Q: Does Google Assistant still work for taking stealth screenshots?
A: It may work on some older versions of Snapchat and Android, but it’s not guaranteed. Try it with caution.
