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10 Tech How-To

Two Snapchat Accounts on One iPhone: Full Guide

Guide 10-36250 · Updated · Step by step

Running two Snapchat accounts on a single iPhone lets you keep personal and work or hobby accounts separate without logging out and back in. This guide covers the two reliable methods — the built-in App Library trick and the official Snapchat alternative login — plus what to do when Snapchat flags the setup.

What You’ll Need

  • An iPhone running iOS 14 or later (for the App Library method).
  • A second Snapchat account with its own email and password.
  • Your primary account credentials handy.
  • Snapchat app updated to the latest version from the App Store.

Step-by-Step

Method 1: Use Snapchat’s Built-in Account Switching

  1. Open Snapchat and log into your primary account.
  2. Tap your profile icon (top-left corner).
  3. Tap the gear icon to open Settings.
  4. Scroll down to the “Account Actions” section and tap “Add Account.”
  5. Enter the credentials for your second account and follow the prompts. Snapchat will keep both accounts logged in.
  6. To switch between them, go back to Settings → “Account Actions” → “Switch Account” and tap the account you want to use.

Method 2: Duplicate the App with App Library (iOS 14+)

  1. Press and hold the Snapchat icon on your Home Screen.
  2. Tap “Remove App” and then “Remove from Home Screen.” This does not delete the app, just its icon.
  3. Swipe left on your Home Screen to open the App Library (the searchable list of all apps).
  4. Find Snapchat in the list. You can use the search bar at the top.
  5. Press and hold the Snapchat icon in the App Library, then drag it back to your Home Screen. This creates a second icon that is actually the same app.
  6. Repeat the process if you want more than two icons, but the same app cannot run two sessions simultaneously — you still need to log out and in.

Important: The App Library method does not let you run two accounts at the same time. It only gives you a second icon for convenience. For true simultaneous use, you need a third-party app or a second device, which Snapchat’s terms of service may prohibit.

Common Mistakes

  • Assuming the duplicate icon runs separately: Both icons point to the same app data. Logging into account B on one icon will log you out of account A on the other.
  • Using a third-party cloning app: Apps like Dual Space or Parallel Space are not endorsed by Snapchat and often trigger account locks or bans because they modify the app’s signature.
  • Forgetting to log out properly: If you just close the app and log in elsewhere, Snapchat may keep the old session active, causing confusion.
  • Sharing your password between accounts: If you use the same password for both, a breach on one could compromise the other.

Tips

  • Use the official “Add Account” feature — it’s the only method that Snapchat supports and is least likely to cause problems.
  • Enable two-factor authentication on both accounts for extra security.
  • If you need both accounts to receive notifications simultaneously, consider using a second device or a tablet.
  • Keep your accounts’ email addresses distinct to avoid recovery issues.
  • Regularly check the “Login and Security” section in Settings to see active sessions and revoke any you don’t recognize.

Troubleshooting

Snapchat says “Account temporarily locked” after switching. This usually happens when you switch accounts too quickly or from a new device. Wait 24–48 hours without logging in, then try again. Avoid using VPNs or emulators.

The “Add Account” option is missing. Make sure your Snapchat app is updated. If it’s still missing, log out completely and log back in, then check Settings again.

Notifications from the second account don’t appear. On iPhone, notifications are tied to the app, not the account. If you’re logged into account B, you’ll only get notifications for that account. You cannot get notifications for both simultaneously on one app.

The second icon on the Home Screen disappears. This happens if you restart your iPhone or if the app is updated. Just drag it out of the App Library again.

Snapchat keeps logging you out of one account. This can happen if you use the same phone number for both accounts. Use different phone numbers or emails for each account.

You can’t log into the second account because of a verification code. Make sure you have access to the email or phone number associated with that account. If you don’t, use the “Forgot Password” option to recover it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use two Snapchat accounts at the same time on one iPhone?

No, not natively. The official app only allows one active session at a time. You can switch quickly using the “Add Account” feature, but you cannot receive snaps for both accounts simultaneously.

Is it against Snapchat’s terms to have two accounts?

Snapchat’s terms don’t explicitly ban having multiple accounts, but they do ban using third-party apps to manage them. Using the official “Add Account” feature is fine.

Will Snapchat ban me for using the App Library duplicate icon?

No, because the duplicate icon is just a shortcut to the same app. It doesn’t modify the app or bypass any security. It’s just a convenience.

How do I switch between accounts quickly?

Go to Settings → Account Actions → Switch Account. Tap the account you want to use. It takes about 10 seconds.

Can I have the same phone number on both accounts?

No, Snapchat requires a unique phone number for each account. You can use the same email? No, email must also be unique. Use different emails and phone numbers.

What if I forget the password for my second account?

Use the “Forgot Password” link on the login screen. You’ll need access to the email or phone number associated with that account to reset it.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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