Snapchat is a social media platform full of unique features, symbols, and quirks that can sometimes leave users scratching their heads. One of these features is the hourglass emoji (⌛), which often appears next to a friend’s name. If you’re wondering what the hourglass means on Snapchat, how to deal with it, and how it fits into the app’s broader functionality, this guide is here to help. Let’s dive in!
What Does the Hourglass Mean on Snapchat?
The hourglass emoji on Snapchat is a part of the app’s Snapstreak feature. A Snapstreak begins when you and a friend exchange snaps (photos or videos, not chats) at least once every 24 hours for three consecutive days. Once a streak is established, a fire emoji (🔥) appears next to the friend’s name, along with a number indicating how many days the streak has lasted.
The hourglass emoji, however, is a warning. It means your Snapstreak is about to end because you and your friend haven’t exchanged snaps in the last 24 hours. It’s Snapchat’s way of saying, “Hurry up and send a snap before it’s too late!”
How to Prevent the Hourglass from Breaking Your Streak
If you see the hourglass emoji and want to keep your streak alive, follow these steps:
- Act Quickly: Make sure you and your friend exchange snaps as soon as possible. Remember, sending a text message or chat won’t count; it has to be a photo or video.
- Send a Snap First: Don’t wait for your friend to send the snap. Take the initiative and send one to them.
- Communicate: If the streak is important to both of you, let your friend know the hourglass has appeared so they can send a snap, too.
How Long Does the Hourglass Emoji Last?
Snapchat hasn’t officially disclosed how long the hourglass emoji stays visible. However, many users report it lasts for about 4 hours. If your Snapstreak matters to you, it’s better to act as soon as you notice the hourglass.
FAQs
1. Can I Get My Snapstreak Back if It Ends?
Yes, you can try! Snapchat allows you to submit a support request if you think your streak ended due to a glitch. Go to the Snapchat Support page and select “Snapstreaks” to report the issue. However, there’s no guarantee they’ll restore it.
2. Does Sending Multiple Snaps Extend the Streak?
No, sending multiple snaps won’t extend the streak. Only one snap from each person in a 24-hour period is required to maintain the streak.
3. Does the Hourglass Appear for Everyone in a Streak?
Yes, the hourglass emoji appears for both people involved in the Snapstreak.
4. Can Chats or Stories Maintain a Streak?
No, only snaps (photos or videos) sent directly to the person count towards maintaining a streak. Chats and Stories do not contribute.
5. How Do I Avoid Losing Streaks in the Future?
- Set a daily reminder to send snaps.
- Create a habit of exchanging snaps at a specific time each day.
- Use Snapchat’s “Send To” feature to send quick snaps to multiple streak friends.
Final Thoughts
The hourglass emoji on Snapchat serves as a helpful reminder for maintaining Snapstreaks, a fun way to stay connected with friends. By understanding what it means and acting quickly, you can keep your streaks alive and enjoy the gamified experience Snapchat offers. Keep snapping!
