Snapchat is a popular social media app that allows users to send photos, videos, and messages that disappear after being viewed. One of Snapchat’s signature features is that it notifies the sender if the recipient takes a screenshot of their snap. This has led many Snapchat users to wonder, why does it say “I screenshot” when you take a screenshot on Snapchat?
How Snapchat Detects Screenshots
When you take a screenshot on your phone, your device is able to detect this action. When you take a screenshot of a snap on Snapchat, the app is programmed to be notified of this event by your device’s operating system.
On iOS devices, there is an API called UIGetScreenImage that allows apps to be notified when a screenshot occurs. When you take a screenshot of a snap, Snapchat receives notification through this API and is able to update their servers that a screenshot took place.
On Android, the operating system broadcasts an intent whenever a screenshot is taken. Snapchat registers a receiver for this intent so it can similarly detect when a screenshot happens and notify their servers.
So in summary, Snapchat is able to detect screenshots through operating system APIs on iOS and broadcast intents on Android.
Why Does Snapchat Notify on Screenshots
Snapchat notifies senders when a recipient takes a screenshot of their snap for a few key reasons:
- It fits with Snapchat’s ephemeral messaging concept – the idea is that snaps disappear after being viewed once. Notifying on screenshots reinforces the temporary nature of snaps.
- It encourages more authentic sharing – People may feel more comfortable sharing private or silly snaps knowing the app will notify them if the recipient screenshots.
- It gives senders transparency – Senders can see if recipients screenshot, which some may use to gauge interest or response to their snap.
- It deters screenshot misuse – Knowing the app will notify on screenshots discourages recipients from screenshotting snaps for unintended purposes without consent.
Overall, the screenshot notification feature aligns with Snapchat’s product philosophy and gives users control over their messaging experience.
What Does “I Screenshot” Notification Mean
When you take a screenshot of someone’s snap, Snapchat will display a notification to the sender that says “I screenshot.” This is Snapchat’s way of notifying the sender that the recipient (you) took a screenshot of their snap.
The “I screenshot” message is displayed in the chat window with the sender, along with the time the screenshot was taken. No other information is provided – the sender is simply notified that a screenshot occurred but not exactly what was in the snap.
Some key points about Snapchat’s “I screenshot” notification:
- It only notifies that a screenshot occurred, not what was in the snap.
- The sender is notified immediately as soon as a screenshot is taken.
- The notification shows in your chat history with the person.
- There is no way to undo or delete the notification after sending it.
The notification will show for both picture and video snaps. The sender is able to see the time you took a screenshot, but the snap itself will still disappear as usual after being viewed.
Why Doesn’t Snapchat Prevent Screenshots
While Snapchat notifies senders of screenshots, some people wonder why the app doesn’t just prevent recipients from taking screenshots altogether. There are a few reasons why Snapchat doesn’t block screenshots:
- It would likely be very difficult to prevent screenshots, especially on Android where apps have limited control.
- Legally blocking screenshots could violate conditions in app stores.
- Preventing screenshots could irritate users who want to save certain snaps.
- Notification provides transparency without completely prohibiting screenshots.
Rather than frustrate users by eliminating screenshot abilities, Snapchat has opted to keep screenshots possible but with transparency through notifications. This balanced approach aligns with their product philosophy.
How Senders React to Screenshot Notifications
Recipients taking screenshots of their snaps can elicit a range of reactions from Snapchat users. Some common ways senders react to screenshot notifications include:
- Positive – Some senders enjoy knowing a user found their snap interesting enough to screenshot.
- Flattered – Recipients screenshotting pics/selfies can make senders feel flattered or confident.
- Amused – Screenshot notifications can serve as a source of amusement for some Snapchatters.
- Curious – Senders may ask recipients why they took a screenshot or what they plan to do with it.
- Cautious – If a sender is sharing something private, a screenshot may make them more cautious about future snaps.
- Upset – In some cases, senders can get upset if they are not comfortable with a recipient screenshotting their snap.
The context of the snap and the relationship between sender and recipient affects how screenshot notifications are perceived. Close friends may react positively while strangers screenshotting could cause concern.
Asking Permission Before Screenshotting
Because Snapchat alerts senders when you screenshot, it is often polite to ask permission before taking a screenshot of someone’s snap. This shows courtesy and respect for their privacy and content.
Some best practices around asking permission include:
- Ask directly within Snapchat – This gives them the context that you want to screenshot their snap specifically.
- Explain why you want to screenshot – Give the sender clarity into your reasons for wanting to save the snap.
- Respect their decision – If the sender declines, accept their decision and do not screenshot against their will.
- Follow up after screenshotting – Let them know you appreciate them allowing you to take a screenshot.
Always use good judgement and remember that permission is optional – the sender is not obligated to allow a screenshot. If you frequently screenshot without asking, a sender may block you.
When is it Okay to Screenshot Without Asking
In most cases, it’s courteous to ask permission before screenshotting someone’s snap. However, there are certain situations where taking a screenshot without asking first may be acceptable:
- If the snap does not contain anything private, embarrassing, or sensitive.
- If the snap is a meme, joke, or viral content meant to be shared.
- If you have an established friendship with the sender where you mutually screenshot each other’s content.
- If you need evidence of inappropriate content for reporting purposes.
- If the snap contains time-sensitive information you need to record.
Use good judgement – if taking the screenshot without permission could upset, offend or negatively impact the sender, it’s better to ask first or not take the screenshot.
Does Sending a Chat Notify of Screenshots
On Snapchat, the screenshot notification only applies to picture and video snaps. If you take a screenshot of a chat or message within Snapchat, it will not notify the sender.
You can screenshot Snapchat chats and messages without the other person being alerted. This applies to both individual and group chats.
The reason screenshot notifications only apply to snaps is because chats are viewed as a more direct form of messaging similar to texting. Snaps are intended to be consumed in the moment, while chats are ongoing conversations that users can refer back to.
However, be aware that while Snapchat itself does not notify users of chat screenshots, your mobile device may still show that you took a screenshot through the notification center or banner.
Does Screen Recording Notify
If you try to take a screen recording of a snap instead of a screenshot, Snapchat will detect this action and notify the sender. Screen recording a snap triggers the same type of notification as taking a screenshot.
This prevents recipients from evading the screenshot notifications by simply screen recording a snap instead. Snapchat wants to maintain the ephemeral and temporary nature of snaps, so any capturing method will trigger a notification.
The sender will be alerted that you took a screen recording of their snap. The wording of the notification may specifically say “I screen recorded” versus “I screenshot” but the effect is the same.
So whether you screenshot, screen record, take a picture or use any method to capture a snap without permission, expect the sender to be notified.
Blocking Someone Who Screenshots
If someone is repeatedly taking screenshots of your snaps without permission, you can choose to block them on Snapchat to prevent further screenshots.
To block a contact:
- Open your Friends list on Snapchat.
- Tap and hold on the name of the person you want to block.
- Tap “More” then select “Block.”
Blocking someone will prevent them from viewing or screenshotting your stories. They will no longer be able to snap you and conversations will end.
Keep in mind blocking is irreversible – if you only wanted to temporarily restrict someone’s access, you can remove them as a friend instead.
Only use blocking if absolutely necessary, as it’s a more extreme measure. But in cases where someone disrespects your privacy, it may be an appropriate option.
Conclusion
Snapchat notifies senders when recipients take screenshots to preserve the ephemeral nature of snaps and maintain transparency in messaging. While you can technically screenshot anything on Snapchat without the app stopping you, it’s best practice to ask permission first in most cases and be respectful if a sender declines. With mutual understanding and respect for boundaries, both senders and recipients can comfortably use Snapchat to its full potential.