Taking screenshots on Snapchat has always been a controversial topic. On one hand, screenshots can be useful for capturing funny or important moments. On the other, Snapchat is designed to be an ephemeral messaging app where nothing is permanent. So is there actually a way to take private screenshots that the other person won’t be notified about?
How Snapchat’s screenshot detection works
First, it’s important to understand how Snapchat is able to detect when a screenshot has been taken in the first place. When you open a snap, your device connects to Snapchat’s servers. This allows the app to transfer the ephemeral image/video to your device and display it to you.
While the snap is being viewed, Snapchat’s servers monitor for any screenshot-related activity. On iOS, taking a screenshot triggers an API call that Snapchat can detect. As soon as this API call is made, Snapchat’s servers are notified and a screenshot notification is sent back to the sender of the snap.
This is all made possible by the fact that Snapchat has direct access to the iOS system APIs. So trying to bypass Snapchat’s screenshot detection through the app alone is very difficult.
Using an external screenshot tool
If you want to take private screenshots on Snapchat for iOS, your best bet is to use an external screenshot tool. These tools run outside of Snapchat and intercept your display output to save screenshots.
Here are some third-party screenshot apps and tools that can bypass Snapchat’s detection on iOS:
Airplane Mode Method
One simple manual method is to turn on Airplane mode before taking screenshots. This cuts off internet access on your device so that Snapchat can’t contact its servers to register the screenshot API call.
To use this method:
- Open the snap you want to screenshot as usual
- Enable Airplane mode on your iPhone
- Take the screenshot
- Disable Airplane mode
As long as you don’t re-enable internet before taking the screenshot, Snapchat will remain unaware. The downside to this method is that it requires manually toggling Airplane mode on and off each time.
Screen Recording
You can take private “screenshots” by screen recording the Snapchat app. iOS has a built-in screen recorder that can be enabled in Control Center. Here’s how to use it:
- Open the Snapchat app and view the snap you want to record.
- Swipe down from the top-right corner to open Control Center.
- Tap the Screen Recording icon (it looks like a circle inside a larger circle).
- Screen recording will start immediately. You’ll get a timer at the top of the screen.
- Once you’re done, swipe back into Control Center and tap the recording icon again to stop.
This will save a video of your Snapchat screen that you can go back and screenshot. The advantages of using screen recording instead of taking direct screenshots are:
- No third-party apps required
- Works reliably on latest iOS versions
- Records entire screen, not just static images
The only catch is that screen recordings take up more storage space than simple screenshots.
Third-party Screenshot Apps
Here are some recommended third-party apps for taking private Snapchat screenshots on iOS:
| App | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| ScreenMaster | Free/$2.99 pro |
|
| Stealth Snap | $4.99 |
|
| Phantom (jailbreak) | Free |
|
These apps work by using features like Accessibility services and Background App Refresh to take screenshots without triggering the Snapchat screenshot API call.
Is it ethical to take private Snapchat screenshots?
While it is technically possible to screenshot Snapchats without the sender knowing, there are some ethical concerns to consider:
- You are violating the intended ephemeral nature of Snapchat
- Taking screenshots without consent can feel invasive
- Recipients may share sensitive content they wouldn’t otherwise
Saving Snapchats without permission essentially makes them less private. You may want to ask the sender before taking screenshots, even if you use a private method. Or avoid screenshotting more personal/embarrassing photos and videos.
There are valid reasons you may want private screenshots, like making memes or nostalgia. But be thoughtful about which snaps you capture and how you use them.
Can your screenshots still be discovered?
While third-party apps and airplane mode provide ways to secretly screenshot on Snapchat, there is always still a risk of being found out:
- Apps may stop working if Snapchat updates screenshot detection
- recipent may notice changes in your behavior hinting that you took screenshots
- Accidentally saving screenshots to your camera roll could make them visible
- Snapchat may still send alerts if glitches or bugs occur
There is no completely foolproof way to avoid detection 100% of the time. The only way to be absolutely certain the recipient won’t know is to refrain from screenshotting altogether.
What does Snapchat say about screenshotting?
According to Snapchat’s law enforcement guide:
“It is impossible to capture Snapchat pictures and video without triggering a notification to the sender.”
Their official stance is that all screenshots are detectable. However, they acknowledge workarounds are possible:
“There are ways that determined users can try to capture Snapchat content via third-party applications but this violates our Terms of Service.”
So while Snapchat tries to prevent undisclosed screenshots, they know it can still happen through unauthorized methods. But they don’t approve of apps specifically made for circumventing their screenshot detections.
Should screenshotting concerns prevent you from using Snapchat?
For many Snapchat users, the risk of screenshots isn’t significant enough to stop enjoying the app. After all, the same risks exist on just about any digital platform. However, here are some cases where screenshot concerns may hold more weight:
- You share very private content on Snapchat
- Screenshots taken out of context could harm you
- You only want fleeting sharing with close friends
- You’re a public figure who relies on ephemerality
If you fall into these categories, the possibility of stealth screenshots may make you reconsider Snapchat – or at least be more selective about the snaps you send.
Tips to avoid screenshot risks on Snapchat
If you want to keep using Snapchat but are worried about screenshots, here are some tips:
- Avoid sending inappropriate or risky photos/videos
- Use Snapchat for casual, fun sharing rather than serious content
- Remind friends and contacts not to screenshot your snaps
- Double check settings to enable screenshot notifications
- Be aware that anything digital can be captured – even on Snapchat
Conclusion
Taking hidden screenshots on Snapchat for iOS is possible using Airplane Mode, screen recording, or third-party apps. However, these workarounds violate Snapchat’s Terms of Service and should be used thoughtfully. While practical for capturing silly moments with friends, secret Snapchat screenshots can feel invasive if used improperly. Be mindful of consent and remember – nothing online is ever completely private, even your Snapchats.