Quick Answer
Yes, it is possible to have Snapchat on 2 devices. Snapchat allows users to be logged into one account on multiple devices at the same time. This means you can have Snapchat downloaded and logged in on both your iPhone and Android phone, for example. Or your phone and tablet. However, there are some limitations with using Snapchat on multiple devices that are important to be aware of.
Logging Into Multiple Devices
To log into your Snapchat account on a second device:
- Download and install the Snapchat app on the additional device
- Open Snapchat and tap ‘Log In’
- Enter your Snapchat username and password to log in
Your account should now be logged in on both your original device and the new device.
When logged in on multiple devices, any messages, snaps, stories, filters, lenses etc will be synced across all devices. So you can start a conversation on one phone and continue it on your other device seamlessly.
However, you can only be actively using Snapchat on one device at a time. If you try to open Snapchat on the second device while it’s open on the first, you’ll get a notification that your account is already in use. You’ll be logged out of the first device to continue on the second.
Limitations of Using Snapchat on Multiple Devices
While Snapchat does allow multiple device logins, there are some restrictions to be aware of:
- You can only be logged in on one mobile device at a time. So you can’t actively use the app on an iPhone and Android phone simultaneously.
- Logging in on multiple mobile devices will log you out of the first device. So you’ll constantly get kicked off one phone if you try using both.
- You can only access Snapchat on one mobile device and one desktop device at the same time. So either one phone and one tablet/computer, or two tablets/computers.
- If you log in on more than two mobile devices within a short space of time, Snapchat may log you out of all devices as a security measure.
- Messages and stories viewed on one device won’t be marked as ‘read’ on other devices.
- You can’t make or receive calls on multiple devices.
So while you can have Snapchat on two smartphones, the experience isn’t seamless and you’ll find yourself being logged in and out of devices as you try to use them. It’s a better idea to only log into Snapchat on one mobile device you intend to use actively.
Workarounds
If you really want seamless Snapchat access on multiple mobile devices, there are some workarounds:
Use Snapchat Web
Snapchat’s web version allows you to use Snapchat on a mobile device and computer simultaneously. So you could have it open on your iPhone and laptop at the same time.
While Snapchat web doesn’t have all the same features as mobile, it can complement another device nicely.
Use Multiple Accounts
Another option is to create a second Snapchat account and log each one into a different device. This avoids conflicts between being logged into a single account on multiple phones.
Of course, this means starting fresh with no previous Snaps and friends on your second account. But it does give you the flexibility to actively use Snapchat on two devices independently.
Use a Snapchat Cloning App
There are some third party apps like Parallel Space that effectively clone Snapchat and allow it to run in a parallel instance on one device. This cloned version runs independently from the original app.
So you can have two copies of Snapchat on a single phone and log into a separate account on each one. This gives you dual account ability on one device.
However, cloning apps are not officially authorized by Snapchat and break their terms of service. There are also potential security risks with giving an unknown app access to your Snapchat data. Use cloning apps at your own discretion.
Why You Might Want Snapchat on Multiple Devices
There are a few reasons why someone might want to use Snapchat on more than one device:
- Managing multiple Snapchat accounts: Having different accounts for personal and business use makes it easier to separate them across devices.
- Using different features: The Snapchat app offers different features. So you might want it on your phone for casual Snaps and Chat, while also using Snapchat on your tablet for creative work in lenses, filters etc.
- Convenience: For heavy Snapchat users, having it on multiple devices allows you to seamlessly use it wherever you are without changing devices.
- Transitioning devices: When moving between old and new phones, logging into both lets you test Snapchat on the new device while still accessing your account on the old one.
While Snapchat is designed as a single mobile device app, using it across multiple devices can provide greater convenience and flexibility – if you work around the limitations.
Troubleshooting Issues
Some common issues when trying to use Snapchat on multiple devices and how to resolve them:
Can’t Login on Second Device
Double check your username and password are correct. Also, make sure you don’t have Snapchat still open on original device which is blocking login elsewhere. Force quit the app on other device.
Keeps Logging Out of Devices
As mentioned above, Snapchat will automatically log you out of one device if you are actively using it on another. This is expected behavior, though annoying. Only use Snapchat actively on one device at a time.
Features Don’t Sync Properly
If Snaps, Chats or Stories don’t sync correctly across devices, try force quitting the app on all devices and logging back in. This will force a refresh.
Can’t Use Some Features
Snapchat has restrictions on what features work cross-device, like no simultaneous calls or viewing stories. This is a limitation of the app, not an issue per se.
Get Error Messages
If Snapchat gives error messages about already being logged in elsewhere, something failed during the multiple login process. Log out of all devices and start fresh with one device at a time.
Summary
To recap, key points about using Snapchat on multiple devices:
- Snapchat allows login on up to 2 devices – either 2 mobiles, 1 mobile and 1 desktop, or 2 desktops.
- You can only actively use Snapchat on one mobile device at a time.
- Logging between multiple mobile devices is designed for transitioning, not simultaneous use.
- Consider using Snapchat Web or multiple accounts instead for seamless multi-device experience.
- Most Snapchat features work across logged in devices, with some exceptions.
- Troubleshoot issues by logging out of devices and logging back in one by one.
While not designed for constant multi-device use, Snapchat flexibility does allow users to enjoy the app across a combination of mobile and desktop devices when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about using Snapchat on multiple devices:
Can I be logged into Snapchat on an iPhone and Android phone at the same time?
No, you can only be actively logged into Snapchat on one mobile device at a time. You can have it installed on multiple phones but using it on one will log you out of the other.
Can I use Snapchat on a phone and iPad simultaneously?
Yes, Snapchat allows simultaneous use on one mobile device and one desktop device like an iPad. You won’t be able to actively use two mobile devices at the same time though.
Does Snapchat sync between an iPhone and Android?
While logged into both devices, Snapchat will sync contacts, messages, stories etc. However, you’ll constantly get logged in and out of each device if trying to use them simultaneously.
Can I use Snapchat on a desktop and mobile at the same time?
Yes, logging into Snapchat mobile on your phone and Snapchat web on desktop is the best way to use Snapchat on multiple devices together.
How many devices can use one Snapchat account?
Snapchat allows a maximum of two devices to be logged into one account at the same time. This can be any combination of mobile and/or desktop devices.
What happens if I log into multiple mobiles?
Logging into more than two mobile devices using the same Snapchat account may trigger security alerts and cause you to be logged out of all devices as a precaution.
Conclusion
Snapchat’s functionality allows for use of the same Snapchat account across multiple devices. While true simultaneous usage on multiple mobiles is limited, the flexibility to transition between phone, tablet and computer allows convenient use of Snapchat wherever you are.
By understanding the limitations but also clever workarounds, most Snapchat enthusiasts can find a way to integrate the app into their workflow across 2 or more devices. Seamless cross-device Snapchat is possible with the right approach.