How can I use Snapchat?

Snapchat, which launched in September 2011, is an online photo sharing application based in Los Angeles. It can also be used to share text and films. The sender can determine how long the receiver of the message can view what has been sent.

The time limit of each communication is up to ten seconds. When asked why this limit had been imposed, the site's founders replied that this was to prevent users projecting an idealized or outright fictional version of themselves, thus enabling truer one-to-one communications.

The time limit also means the images or text take up less memory on your device, given they delete themselves after the limit expires.

Why Shouldn't I Just Stick with Instagram?

One of Snapchat's boasts is that it offers its users a more intimate service than Instagram, so instead of broadcasting to the world, you are sharing with chosen friends.

Snapchat's social engagement loop, also gives a faster inclusiveness than Instagram. When a video is shared, the recipient(s) receives a push notification, bringing them back to the app with an implicit call-to-action to reply, continuing the loop. The loop, or cycle time is fast, increasing momentum and number of shared moments. Instagram’s loop is comparatively slow.

For other Blurtit replies to Snapchat queries, check out How do you hack someone's Snapchat? or Why does your snapchat score go up?

This film explains more about Snapchat: