Quick Answer
There is currently no built-in way to export all Snapchat memories at once. The only way to save Snapchat memories is to manually save each one individually. However, there are some third-party apps and workarounds that can help export Snapchat memories in bulk.
Exporting Snapchat Memories
Snapchat is designed so that photos, videos, and chats disappear after being viewed. This ephemeral nature is part of what makes Snapchat unique. However, there are a few ways Snapchat memories can be saved:
- You can save individual snaps to your camera roll by pressing and holding on the snap to bring up the options, then tapping the download icon.
- You can save your Snapchat story by going to your profile, tapping on your story, pressing and holding on a snap to bring up the options, then tapping the download icon.
- You can save chat conversations by tapping and holding on a message, then tapping the save icon.
Unfortunately, these methods only allow saving one snap or chat at a time. There is no built-in bulk export option. The main intent behind this limitation is to maintain the ephemeral experience of Snapchat.
Workarounds to Export All Snapchat Memories
While Snapchat does not have a native bulk export feature, there are some workarounds and third-party apps that provide ways to save Snapchat memories in bulk:
iOS Workarounds
- Use Airplane Mode to view and screenshot snaps outside the app. Open a snap, turn on Airplane Mode, screenshot the snap, then close and reopen Snapchat.
- Jailbreak your iPhone and use tweaks like Snapper 2 to bypass restrictions and export memories.
- Use a third-party app like iSkysoft Toolbox that can extract saved Snapchat data from an iPhone backup.
Android Workarounds
- Use Airplane Mode in the same way as on iPhone.
- Root your Android phone and install Xposed Framework modules to get around restrictions.
- Use data extraction apps like Dr. Fone to pull Snapchat data from Android backups.
Third-Party Apps
There are a number of third-party apps designed specifically for saving Snapchat memories:
- SnapSave – Allows saving snaps, stories, and chats without the sender knowing. Available for both iOS and Android.
- Snapbox – Android app that auto-saves snaps and stories with notifications. Can export all saved data.
- SnapCracker – Windows program that can download full Snapchat histories with access to the account.
- SnapX – Another Android app that automatically saves Snapchat stories and Memories.
These tools make it easy to bulk export all Snapchat memories. However, using third-party apps violates Snapchat’s terms of service and may result in a suspended or locked account if detected.
The Risks of Exporting Memories
While it’s tempting to find a workaround to bulk save all your Snapchat memories, there are some risks to consider:
- Using third-party apps or hacked versions of Snapchat violates the terms of service and can lead to your account being banned, especially if doing large exports.
- Downloaded memories lose the ephemerality that makes Snapchat unique, which negates the privacy intent behind the platform.
- Bulk saving everything in your memories feed removes the context of how those snaps and stories were shared in the moment.
- Other users do not expect their snaps to be saved, so saving them without consent raises privacy issues.
If you do choose to export memories, make sure to do so ethically and selectively. Avoid violating others’ trust by mass saving their private snaps without permission.
Is Snapchat Right for You?
If you find yourself wanting to download your entire Snapchat history, you may want to reconsider using Snapchat in the first place. The ephemeral nature of the platform is an integral part of the experience. If you want to permanently save a lot of photos and videos, other apps like Instagram or Facebook may be a better fit.
Think about why you use Snapchat and what your goals are. If you just want to keep in touch with friends in fun, silly ways throughout the day, embrace the fleeting snaps. But if you’re looking for a more permanent photo archive, adjust your expectations.
How Snapchat Uses Ephemerality
Understanding why Snapchat was designed around ephemeral sharing can help answer whether trying to bulk export memories makes sense:
- Creates a natural flow of conversation that doesn’t accumulate permanence.
- Encourages sharing casual, silly, or ugly photos that users wouldn’t necessarily want saved.
- Avoids the pressure of curating a “perfect” photo archive for social media.
- Lets users be their authentic selves knowing photos disappear.
- Fosters presence in the moment rather than getting lost in past memories.
This intentional ephemerality is at the core of Snapchat’s identity. So trying to save everything goes against the basic premise of the app.
Alternative Ways to Keep Memories
If you still want to hold onto some Snapchat memories or highlights, consider these alternatives to bulk exporting everything:
- Screenshot truly special moments to save individually.
- Use Snapchat Memories to save certain stories, but be selective.
- Leverage My Eyes Only for private keeping of some memories.
- Print out physical copies of favorite snaps to display.
- Screen record fun videos to share on other platforms.
- Describe memorable snaps in a journal or diary.
Being more mindful and intentional with saving Snapchat memories can lead to keeping your favorite moments while respecting the ephemerality that makes Snapchat what it is.
The Answer?
To summarize – there is no official bulk export option for Snapchat memories. While third-party workarounds exist, they violate Snapchat’s terms of service and should be avoided.
The core value of Snapchat lies in ephemeral sharing. Trying to save everything goes against the spirit of the platform. Be careful not to neglect the present to obsessively hold onto the past.
If certain special memories truly mean a lot to you, save those selectively in a thoughtful manner. But learn to appreciate the fleeting nature of Snapchat, and don’t try to hold onto every ephemeral snap.
Conclusion
Snapchat’s ephemeral and disposable nature is central to its identity and appeal. While there are ways to export all your Snapchat memories through unofficial workarounds, doing so misses the point and intent behind the platform.
Embrace the ephemeral beauty of fleeting photos and videos that disappear. Be present and live in the moment, not obsessed with archiving the past. If you respect Snapchat’s core values, you’ll discover the joy of letting some memories fade so you can fully engage with each new day. Trust that the most meaningful moments will live on in your heart and mind even without a saved copy.