The world of Snapchat, where terminology can sometimes be as fleeting as the snaps themselves. When it comes to understanding what “added” means on Snapchat, it’s essential to dive into the platform’s nuances.
To start, Snapchat, as a social media platform, is known for its ephemeral nature, allowing users to send photos and videos that disappear after they are viewed. However, beneath this surface-level functionality lies a complex web of interactions and terminology that users must navigate. One such term is “added,” which can have different implications depending on the context in which it is used.
When Someone Adds You
If someone adds you on Snapchat, it means they have chosen to include you in their list of friends or contacts on the platform. This action allows them to send you snaps and stories, and it also enables you to do the same. When you’re added, you’ll receive a notification indicating that a new user has added you to their friends list. You then have the option to add them back, which would complete the friendship and allow for a full exchange of content between the two of you.
Understanding the Types of Adds
There are a couple of ways someone can add you on Snapchat, and the method might influence the type of interaction you have with this new contact:
Username Search: If someone finds you by searching your username, they can add you directly if your privacy settings allow it. This is a straightforward way for people to connect with you if they know your handle.
Snapcode: Each user has a unique Snapcode, similar to a QR code, which can be scanned to add someone as a friend instantly. This is often used when meeting new people or during events where quick connections are desired.
Contact Syncing: Snapchat allows users to sync their phone contacts to find friends. If your number is in someone’s phone contacts and they have chosen to sync those contacts with Snapchat, you might appear as a suggested friend, making it easier for them to add you.
Privacy Settings
Snapchat provides users with several privacy settings that can control who can add them and see their content. Users can choose to allow anyone to add them, only those they have added back, or restrict it further. Understanding these settings is crucial, especially for managing who can see your stories and send you snaps.
The Concept of “Mutual Friends”
When someone adds you, it doesn’t automatically make them a mutual friend. To be considered mutual friends, you must add each other back. This distinction is important because your level of interaction and what you can see of each other’s content depend on whether you are mutual friends.
How to Manage Adds
To add someone back: After receiving a notification that someone has added you, you can navigate to the “Added Me” section (usually found under the “Friends” tab), where you can choose to add them back.
To manage your adds and requests: You can control who can contact you and see your content by adjusting your privacy settings. It’s a good idea to regularly review these settings to ensure they align with your preferences for interacting with others on the platform.
Conclusion
The term “added” on Snapchat refers to the action of a user including another user in their friends list, enabling direct communication and content sharing between the two. Understanding how adds work, including the process of adding someone back to become mutual friends, can enhance your Snapchat experience. By being mindful of your privacy settings and regularly reviewing your connections, you can use Snapchat in a way that feels comfortable and enjoyable for you.
