It can be frustrating when you record a Snapchat video but forget to save it before closing the app. Unfortunately, Snapchat deletes unsaved snaps once you close the app, so recovering an unsaved video may seem impossible. However, there are a few potential methods you can try to get your video back.
In the opening paragraphs, we’ll answer some common questions about recovering unsaved Snapchat videos:
Is it possible to recover an unsaved Snapchat video?
While Snapchat’s default settings don’t allow you to recover unsaved videos, there are some methods you can try to retrieve your lost snap. With the right tools and techniques, it is sometimes possible to restore an unsaved video.
Why does Snapchat delete unsaved videos?
Snapchat’s ephemeral messaging system is designed to make content disappear. By auto-deleting unsaved snaps, Snapchat creates a low-pressure environment where users feel free to share casual, spontaneous moments. The temporary nature of Snapchat videos is what makes the platform fun and unique.
What should you do immediately after realizing you didn’t save a Snapchat video?
As soon as you realize you forgot to save an important Snapchat, close the app and avoid doing anything else on your phone. This will increase the chances that your video still exists temporarily in your phone’s cache. Avoid overwrite the data by minimizing new app activity.
How long do unsaved Snapchat videos exist on your phone?
Snapchat videos are automatically deleted instantly when you close the app. However, the video data may still exist temporarily in your phone’s storage or cache. This retained data can remain accessible for anywhere from 20-60 minutes after closing Snapchat.
Recovering Deleted Snapchat Videos from Your Phone’s Cache
If you act quickly enough after losing an unsaved video, you may be able to recover it from your phone’s temporary storage before it’s permanently overwritten. Here are a few methods to try:
Use a File Explorer App
A file explorer or file recovery app may be able to find and restore unsaved video files that still exist in your phone’s cache. Apps like DiskDigger Photo Recovery can scan your phone for deleted files.
Connect Your Phone to a Computer
Attaching your phone to a computer and browsing its directories can potentially reveal cached Snapchat videos. You’ll need a USB connection and some video file recovery software on the computer.
Try Your Phone’s Built-in Cache
On some Android phones, you can view and recover cached Snapchat videos directly through your system settings under Storage > Cached Data.
The quicker you attempt these cache recovery methods, the better your chances of getting your video back. Don’t use your phone for other activities until you’ve tried retrieving the file.
Using Data Recovery Software
If you weren’t able to get your video back from the phone’s cache, your next option is to use dedicated data recovery software. These advanced tools can help restore deleted files that are no longer accessible through basic file browsing.
Run Data Recovery Software on Your Phone
Specialized mobile data recovery apps like EaseUS MobiSaver can scan beyond the phone’s surface-level storage and uncover deleted Snapchat videos. Let the app run an in-depth scan of your phone.
Use Data Recovery on Your Computer
Connecting your phone to your computer and running recovery software like Recuva or TestDisk can reveal more remnant Snapchat files from your phone’s internal storage. This bypasses the phone’s own operating system.
Try a Snapchat Data Recovery Service
As a last resort, you can enlist professional Snapchat recovery services that use proprietary data recovery technology to restore deleted videos. The video is retrieved remotely or extracted at a data recovery lab.
Advanced data recovery methods can restore unsaved Snapchat videos by searching your phone’s internal memory for any traces of the deleted data.
Preventing Lost Snapchat Videos
To avoid losing your Snapchat memories in the future, here are some tips to save your videos:
Double-tap to Save
Get in the habit of double-tapping your videos in the Snapchat app to save them before sending or closing. This adds them to your Memories.
Use a Third-party App
Some apps can automatically save your Snapchat stories and videos, like Snapbox, Snapsave, and more. Research reliable options.
Screen Record Videos
On iPhone, you can use your phone’s built-in screen recording to capture and save your Snapchat videos.
Backup Your Phone
Regularly backing up your phone to iCloud or Google Drive can protect your Snapchat videos from loss and corruption.
With the right tools and preventative habits, you can enjoy creating Snapchat videos without worrying about losing your memories and moments. Be proactive about saving anything important before closing the app.
Recovering Deleted Snapchat Videos: FAQ
For more details about recovering lost Snapchat videos, check out answers to these frequently asked questions:
Does Snapchat have a trash folder for deleted videos?
Unfortunately, no. Unlike photos, Snapchat does not have a built-in trash or recycling bin where unwanted videos are stored. Unsaved videos are permanently deleted.
Can law enforcement recover deleted Snapchat videos?
In some cases, law enforcement may be able to work with Snapchat to recover deleted content with a valid warrant during an investigation. But for everyday users, deleted videos cannot be retrieved through Snapchat.
Can Snapchat recover expired stories?
Expired and deleted stories cannot be recovered by Snapchat. However, portions of expired stories may remain cached on a user’s device temporarily and be recoverable through file recovery methods.
Does clearing the Snapchat cache delete unsaved videos?
Yes, clearing the Snapchat cache will delete any temporary Snapchat data stored on your phone, including unsaved videos. Only clear your cache if you have already recovered any lost videos you want to keep.
How long do deleted Snapchat videos stay on Snapchat servers?
Snapchat permanently deletes unsaved snap data almost instantly – it does not remain on their servers. This makes recovering lost videos extremely time sensitive.
Conclusion
While accidentally losing an unsaved Snapchat video can be upsetting, there are techniques you can try to get your video back and avoid this situation in the future. Act swiftly after losing your snap to run file recovery software before the video is gone forever. With responsible saving and backup habits, you can comfortably capture life’s fun spontaneous moments on Snapchat without worrying about losing these memories.