Snapchat is a popular social media app that allows users to send pictures and videos, called snaps, to their friends. One of the signature features of Snapchat is that the snaps disappear after being viewed. Users can add captions, filters, and stickers to their snaps before sending them.
When creating a Snapchat account, users are prompted to create a unique Snapchat username. This username is different from the display name that shows up when sending and receiving snaps. The display name is changeable at any time, while the username stays the same.
Snapchat Username vs Display Name
The Snapchat username is unique to each user. It is the name that identifies a user’s account and is needed for others to find and add someone. The username appears beside a user’s Snapcode and on their public profile. Usernames must be at least 4 characters long and contain letters, numbers, or underscores.
The display name is the name that friends see when a user sends them snaps. It appears at the top of the snap and can be changed at any time in the app’s settings. The display name can be up to 42 characters long and include letters, numbers, emojis, and spaces.
While usernames are fixed, the display name is customizable and changeable. Users often set their display names to their real names, nicknames, or funny phrases to share with friends.
Changing Your Snapchat Display Name
Snapchat makes it easy to change your display name in just a few steps:
- Open the Snapchat app and tap on your profile icon in the top left corner
- Tap the gear icon to access your settings
- Tap on the “Name” field under the “Username” section
- Delete your current display name
- Type in your new desired display name (up to 42 characters)
- Tap the arrow or return key to save your new name
Your new display name should now appear when you send snaps and chat with friends! Snapchat does not send a notification when you change your display name, so you can change it as often as you want.
Display Name Ideas
Looking for some fun, creative display names to use on Snapchat? Here are some ideas:
- A funny nickname
- An inside joke or pun
- Song lyrics
- A favorite movie/TV character name
- An alter ego
- Emojis that represent you
- Your astrological sign
- Your Hogwarts house
- A creative mix of letters and numbers
- Your profession or interests
Get inspired from pop culture, memes, or personal details. Display names let you show off your personality! Change it up whenever you feel like something new.
Tips for Snapchat Display Names
Here are some top tips for picking the perfect display name on Snapchat:
- Be creative – Use emojis, puns, song lyrics or movie references to stand out.
- Keep it short – Display names cut off after around 30 characters.
- Add spaces – This makes longer names easier to read at a glance.
- Mix it up – Change your display name occasionally to keep it fresh.
- Use nicknames – To make your snaps more personal for close friends.
- No impersonating – Don’t pretend to be someone or something you’re not.
- Be appropriate – Avoid offensive, vulgar or misleading names.
- Reflect your personality – Let your sense of humor or interests shine!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Snapchat display name is inappropriate?
Snapchat prohibits impersonation, offensive content, slurs, threats, references to illegal drugs, and other inappropriate content. If you receive a warning from Snapchat or are banned from the platform, your display name has likely violated the community guidelines.
Can someone else see my old Snapchat display names?
No, Snapchat does not keep a public record of previous display names. Only the current display name you have set is visible to other users.
Does Snapchat notify my friends when I change my display name?
No, Snapchat does not send any alert or notification when you change your display name. The change will be seamless to your friends.
Can I use the same display name as my friend?
Yes, multiple Snapchat users can have the same display name since it is customizable and not unique like usernames. This could get confusing for your other friends though!
Is there a character limit for Snapchat display names?
Yes, Snapchat display names can be up to 42 characters long, including letters, numbers, spaces, and emojis.
Conclusion
A Snapchat display name provides users with a fun, personal way to identify themselves on the app. While usernames remain fixed, the changeable display name lets you get creative. Express yourself with song lyrics, inside jokes, emojis, nicknames or anything else that shows off your personality!
Keep in mind the app’s rules against impersonation, offensive content, and inappropriate behavior. With the right display name, you can build your Snapchat presence and strengthen connections with friends across the platform.
So get snapping with a creative new display name tailored just for you!