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How to Revert Snapchat to a Previous Version: A Comprehensive Guide

Regretting that recent Snapchat update? Maybe you’re missing a feature, dealing with bugs, or simply preferred the old interface. While Snapchat doesn’t offer a straightforward “undo” button for updates, there are methods to potentially revert to a previous version. Be warned, though: these methods can be technically challenging and may come with risks. Let’s delve into the possibilities.

The harsh reality is that directly “undoing” a Snapchat update through the app itself is impossible. Snapchat, like most modern apps, pushes updates that replace the existing application entirely. However, depending on your device (Android vs. iOS) and technical expertise, you may have some options.

Android Users: A Glimmer of Hope

Android’s open nature provides a few potential avenues for reverting, though none are guaranteed success.

Method 1: Uninstall and Find an Older APK

This is the most common (and arguably safest) method, though it requires a bit of digital sleuthing.

Uninstall the current Snapchat app: Go to your phone’s settings, find “Apps” or “Application Manager,” locate Snapchat, and tap “Uninstall.”
Enable “Unknown Sources” (if necessary): This setting allows you to install apps from sources other than the Google Play Store. Go to Settings > Security (or Privacy, depending on your Android version) and enable “Unknown sources” or “Install unknown apps.” Be extremely cautious when enabling this, as it opens your device to potential security risks. Only download APKs from trusted sources!
Find a reliable APK archive: Websites like APKMirror or Uptodown offer archives of older Snapchat APK files. Carefully research the website’s reputation before downloading anything. Look for a version number that predates the update you dislike.
Download the APK: Choose the desired version and download the APK file.
Install the APK: Locate the downloaded APK file (usually in your “Downloads” folder) and tap it to begin installation.
Disable automatic updates for Snapchat: To prevent Snapchat from automatically updating again, go to the Google Play Store, find the Snapchat app, tap the three dots in the upper right corner, and uncheck “Enable auto update.”

Important Considerations for APK Downloads:

Security: Always scan downloaded APK files with a reputable antivirus app before installation.
Compatibility: Older versions might not be fully compatible with your device’s Android version, leading to crashes or unexpected behavior.
Functionality: Some features may not work correctly in older versions, especially those relying on server-side updates.

Method 2: Using a Backup (If Available)

If you’ve previously backed up your entire Android device (or just the Snapchat app data) using a tool like Titanium Backup (requires root access) or your phone’s built-in backup system, you might be able to restore a previous version.

Restore the backup: Using your backup software, restore the Snapchat app and its associated data to a point before the update occurred. The process varies depending on the backup tool used.
Disable automatic updates: As with the APK method, disable automatic updates for Snapchat in the Google Play Store.

Drawbacks of Backup Restoration:

Root Access (Titanium Backup): Some powerful backup tools require root access, which voids your device’s warranty and carries significant security risks if not handled carefully.
Data Loss: Restoring from a backup could potentially overwrite more recent data on your device, so proceed with caution.

iOS (iPhone/iPad) Users: A More Challenging Landscape

Unfortunately, reverting Snapchat updates on iOS is significantly more difficult due to Apple’s tighter control over the operating system.

Potential, but Complex, Option: iTunes Backup and Restore

If you backed up your entire iPhone to your computer using iTunes before updating Snapchat, you might be able to restore your device to that earlier state.

Connect your iPhone to your computer: Use the USB cable.
Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina or later): If iTunes doesn’t open automatically, launch it manually.
Select your iPhone: In iTunes, click the iPhone icon when it appears. In Finder, select your iPhone from the sidebar.
Restore from Backup: Click “Restore Backup…” (in iTunes) or the “Restore iPhone…” button (in Finder). Choose the backup that predates the Snapchat update.
Follow the on-screen instructions: iTunes/Finder will guide you through the restoration process.

Significant Caveats for iOS Restoration:

Complete Device Wipe: Restoring from an iTunes backup will erase everything on your iPhone and replace it with the data from the backup. This includes photos, videos, messages, and other apps.
Potential for Data Loss: Any data created after the backup date will be lost.
Compatibility Issues: Restoring an older backup might create compatibility issues with newer versions of iOS.
No Guarantees: Even if you restore a backup, Snapchat might still force an update upon launching the app.

Why Other Methods Are Unlikely to Work on iOS:

No Sideloading: Unlike Android, iOS doesn’t allow you to easily install apps from sources outside the App Store (without jailbreaking, which is strongly discouraged).
App Store Limitations: Apple doesn’t offer older versions of apps for download.

FAQs About Reverting Snapchat Updates

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process and potential pitfalls:

FAQ 1: Is it safe to download APK files from third-party websites?

It can be, but extreme caution is necessary. Only download APKs from reputable sources like APKMirror and Uptodown. Always scan downloaded files with an antivirus app before installing them. Never download APKs from websites that look suspicious or ask for personal information.

FAQ 2: Will reverting to an older version of Snapchat get my account banned?

It’s unlikely, but not impossible. Snapchat’s terms of service may discourage using older versions. While they typically focus on preventing the use of modified versions of the app for cheating or unauthorized access, using an outdated official version could potentially be flagged. Use at your own risk.

FAQ 3: I can’t find an older version of Snapchat on APKMirror. What should I do?

APK availability depends on several factors. You can try searching other reputable APK archive websites. If you still can’t find the desired version, it might simply not be archived publicly.

FAQ 4: How can I prevent Snapchat from automatically updating?

On Android, go to the Google Play Store, find the Snapchat app, tap the three dots in the upper right corner, and uncheck “Enable auto update.” On iOS, you can disable automatic app updates globally in Settings > App Store, or manage individual app updates manually.

FAQ 5: Does jailbreaking my iPhone make it easier to revert Snapchat updates?

Yes, jailbreaking would provide more flexibility, allowing you to potentially sideload older versions of the app. However, jailbreaking is strongly discouraged as it voids your warranty, exposes your device to security vulnerabilities, and can make your iPhone unstable.

FAQ 6: Will Snapchat force me to update eventually?

Yes, it’s highly likely. Snapchat often pushes mandatory updates that prevent you from using older versions after a certain period. This is done to ensure everyone is using the latest security features and compatible infrastructure.

FAQ 7: I restored my iPhone from a backup, but Snapchat still updated automatically. Why?

Even after restoring from a backup, your iPhone might automatically update apps in the background if you haven’t disabled automatic updates in Settings > App Store.

FAQ 8: What is “rooting” my Android phone, and why does it matter?

Rooting gives you administrator-level access to your Android operating system. This allows you to perform advanced modifications, such as using powerful backup tools like Titanium Backup. However, rooting voids your warranty and can brick your device if done incorrectly. It also increases your device’s vulnerability to malware.

FAQ 9: Will reverting to an older version of Snapchat fix bugs in the new version?

Potentially, but it depends on the bug. If the bug was introduced in the recent update, reverting might resolve it. However, older versions may also have their own bugs or compatibility issues.

FAQ 10: Can I revert a Snapchat update on a computer or web browser?

No, Snapchat is primarily a mobile app and doesn’t have a fully functional desktop or web version that’s directly comparable.

FAQ 11: I’m having problems with the new Snapchat update. What else can I do besides reverting?

Try the following:

Restart your phone: A simple restart can often resolve minor software glitches.
Clear Snapchat’s cache: Go to Settings > Apps > Snapchat > Storage and tap “Clear Cache.”
Contact Snapchat support: Report the issue to Snapchat support, and they might be able to provide assistance or address the bug in a future update.

FAQ 12: Is there a way to download older versions of apps directly from the App Store or Google Play Store?

No, neither the App Store nor the Google Play Store provides a built-in mechanism for downloading older versions of apps. You’re limited to the most recent version available.

In conclusion, while reverting a Snapchat update is challenging and often involves risks, Android users have slightly more flexibility than iOS users. Always proceed with caution, back up your data when possible, and only download files from trusted sources. And remember, sometimes the best approach is to adapt to the changes and embrace the latest version of the app, even if it takes some getting used to.