what does following on snapchat mean

2 min read 27-02-2025

Snapchat, the ephemeral messaging app, uses its own unique terminology. Understanding what "following" means on Snapchat is key to navigating the app effectively. This article will break down the meaning of following, its implications, and how it differs from other social media platforms.

Understanding Snapchat's "Following"

On Snapchat, "following" someone means you've added them to your friends list and are now subscribed to their Story updates. When you follow someone, you'll see their Snaps and Stories appear in your app's feed. Crucially, this is a one-way action. They don't automatically become your friend or follower in return.

This differs significantly from platforms like Instagram or Twitter where a follow request usually results in a mutual connection, unless the person has a private account.

What You See When Following Someone

Stories: You'll see their public Stories at the top of your Snapchat screen. These are collections of photos and videos they've created, lasting up to 24 hours.
Snaps: (If they've added you back) You might receive direct snaps. These are private messages that disappear after viewing, unless saved.
Chats: You can also engage in private chats with them (again, only if they've added you back).

The Difference Between Following and Being Friends

While following someone lets you see their public Stories, true "friendship" on Snapchat implies a reciprocal connection. To be considered friends, both you and the other person need to have added each other. This opens up all the features of Snapchat, including direct snaps, chats, and the ability to send private snaps which disappear after viewing. Simply following someone doesn't guarantee you'll receive any direct snaps from them, or be able to chat.

How to Follow Someone on Snapchat

Following someone is easy:

Find their username: This could be through a mutual friend, a QR code, or by searching their name within Snapchat.
Add them: Once found, tap their profile and select the "Add Friend" option. It's a simple tap!

Note that they don't need to approve you in order for you to see their public stories. Adding someone only creates a one-way connection. They will only see your snaps and stories if they add you back as a friend.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I follow someone without them knowing?

A: Yes, you can follow someone on Snapchat without them knowing. They won’t receive a notification that you've added them to your friend list unless they check their "Added Me" list. However, they will see that you've viewed their public Stories if you choose to view them.

Q: What happens if I unfollow someone?

A: You will no longer see their Stories in your feed. They will not be notified that you've unfollowed them.

Q: Does following someone increase their Snapchat score?

A: No, following someone does not directly impact their Snapchat score. Only sending and receiving Snaps and Stories contribute to that.

Conclusion

Following on Snapchat provides a way to passively consume content from others. It's a simple one-way action, unlike the reciprocal nature of following on other social media platforms. Remember, to fully engage with someone, you both need to add each other as friends. Understanding this distinction is crucial to enjoying the Snapchat experience fully.