Snapchat is a popular mobile app that lets you send disappearing messages, photos and short videos. It’s available for download on the App Store for iOS devices and the Google Play Store for Android devices. But what if you don’t have access to either of these app stores, or you have an older device that doesn’t support the latest version of Snapchat? Don’t worry, there are ways in which you can still download Snapchat without the app store. This article will guide you through the various methods you can use to get Snapchat on your device.
Using A Third-party App Store
If you don’t have access to the App Store or the Google Play Store, there are still other app stores like Aptoide, which allow you to download and install apps that aren’t available in the official app stores. Here’s how to download Snapchat using Aptoide:
- Install Aptoide on your device by visiting the Aptoide website and downloading the installation file.
- Once installed, open Aptoide and search for Snapchat.
- Click on the Snapchat app, then click on the ‘Download’ button.
- Once downloaded, click on the ‘Install’ button to install Snapchat on your device.
Using A File Manager App
You can also download Snapchat without the app store through a file manager app. Here’s how:
- Download the Snapchat apk file from a trusted source, such as APKMirror.
- Open your file manager app and navigate to the folder where the Snapchat apk file is saved.
- Click on the apk file to start the installation process.
- Allow installation from unknown sources, if needed.
- Wait for the installation to complete and then open Snapchat.

Using an Older Version of Snapchat
If you have an old device that doesn’t support the latest version of Snapchat, you can still download older versions of the app. Here’s how:
- Search for the version of Snapchat you want to download online.
- Download the apk file and save it to your device.
- Install the apk file.
- Once you have installed the older version of Snapchat, log in to your account and start using the app.
Use a Virtual Machine
If none of the above methods work for you, you can try using a virtual machine. Here’s how:
- Download a virtual machine app like VirtualBox to your computer.
- Set up a virtual machine and install an operating system on it.
- Download and install an Android emulator on the virtual machine.
- Install Snapchat on the emulator.
Using a Friend’s Device
If all else fails, you can always borrow a friend’s device that has Snapchat installed on it. Here’s how:
- Sign in to your Snapchat account on your friend’s device.
- Once you’re signed in, go to your profile and tap on the gear icon.
- Tap on ‘Snapcodes’ and then ‘Create Snapcode’.
- Save the Snapcode to your device.
- Open Snapchat on your device and scan the Snapcode to add your friend’s account.
Conclusion
Snapchat is a popular app that lets you communicate with friends and family through disappearing messages and photos. If you don’t have access to the official app stores or if you have an older device that doesn’t support the latest version of Snapchat, there are still ways in which you can download the app. This article has outlined the various methods you can use to get Snapchat installed and running on your device. Try them out and find the one that works best for you.
FAQs
1. Is it possible to download Snapchat without using the App Store on my iPhone or iPad?
Technically, it is possible to download and install apps like Snapchat without using the App Store by sideloading the app. However, sideloading is not recommended for several reasons, including security risks, potential violation of Apple's terms and conditions, and potential instability or incompatibility issues with your device.
2. Why is sideloading Snapchat not recommended for iOS devices?
Sideloading Snapchat or any other app on an iOS device is not recommended because it can pose security risks, as you may inadvertently install malicious software or a modified version of the app that can compromise your device's security. Additionally, sideloading can lead to instability or incompatibility issues and may violate Apple's terms and conditions, potentially resulting in the loss of warranty or support for your device.
3. How can I download Snapchat if it's not available in my country's App Store?
If Snapchat is not available in your country's App Store, you can try creating a new Apple ID with a different country or region where Snapchat is available. However, this method may not always work and could potentially lead to complications with your Apple account. It's important to weigh the risks and consider the potential consequences before proceeding.
4. Can I download Snapchat on an older iOS device that doesn't support the latest version of the app?
If you have an older iOS device that doesn't support the latest version of Snapchat, you may be able to download an older version of the app that is compatible with your device. To do this, you must have previously downloaded Snapchat on your Apple ID. Open the App Store on your older device, go to the "Purchased" section, find Snapchat, and attempt to download it. If a compatible version is available, you'll be prompted to install it.