does snapchat say by search anymore

2 min read 09-03-2025

Meta Description: Wondering if Snapchat still shows the "by search" indicator? This comprehensive guide explains Snapchat's updated search features, how to find friends, and troubleshooting tips if you're having trouble locating people. We'll cover the changes Snapchat has made to its search functionality, explore how to find friends and content effectively, and offer solutions for common search-related problems. Learn how to navigate Snapchat's search and discover its hidden gems!

Snapchat's Evolving Search: No More "By Search"?

Many long-time Snapchat users remember seeing "By Search" appear next to a username in their friend's list. This indicated that the user was found through a search rather than a mutual connection. However, Snapchat no longer explicitly displays "By Search." The platform has updated its interface and search functionality over time.

This change doesn't necessarily mean Snapchat has removed the ability to find users through search. It simply means they've streamlined the process and removed the visual cue.

How to Find Friends on Snapchat Now

Finding friends on Snapchat is still possible, even without the "By Search" indicator. Here's how:

Using the Search Bar: The most common method is using Snapchat's built-in search bar. Type in the username, full name, or even partial name of the person you're looking for. Snapchat will suggest matching profiles.
Adding Through Phone Contacts: Snapchat automatically imports contacts from your phone. If someone you want to add has their Snapchat account linked to their phone number, they'll appear in your "Add Friends" section.
Using Snapcodes: Each Snapchat user has a unique Snapcode—a QR-like image. Scanning a Snapcode adds the user as a friend instantly. You can find Snapcodes on someone's profile or shared elsewhere online.
Quick Add: Snapchat's "Quick Add" feature suggests friends based on mutual contacts and other factors. Check this section regularly for potential new connections.

Troubleshooting Snapchat Search Issues

If you're having trouble finding someone on Snapchat, consider these troubleshooting steps:

Check Spelling: Ensure you're typing the username correctly. Even minor errors can prevent finding a profile.
Privacy Settings: The person you're searching for may have their profile set to private. If so, they might need to approve your friend request.
Account Status: The account might be deleted or temporarily suspended.
Update the App: An outdated app can sometimes cause glitches. Make sure you have the latest version of Snapchat installed.
Restart Your Device: A simple restart can often resolve temporary software issues.

Understanding Snapchat's Privacy Features

Snapchat prioritizes user privacy. Many settings can affect search visibility:

Private Account: Setting your account to private means only approved friends can see your profile and content.
"Who Can Contact Me": This setting controls who can send you friend requests.

Beyond Finding Friends: Snapchat Search for Content

Snapchat search isn't just for people. You can also use it to find:

Public Stories: Search for hashtags or keywords related to topics you're interested in to find public stories.
Lenses and Filters: Use the search to find specific Lenses or Filters to enhance your Snaps.
Discover Page: The Discover page features content from various creators and publishers. You can search this page to find relevant channels.

Conclusion

While the "By Search" label is gone, finding people and content on Snapchat remains straightforward. Use the search bar effectively, explore privacy settings, and remember troubleshooting steps if you encounter any problems. Snapchat's search functionality, though changed, is still a valuable tool for connecting with friends and discovering engaging content. Remember to always respect others’ privacy settings.