Snapchat Time Sensitive Notifications: What Does The Feature Mean?

August 15, 2023

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Curious about the term “time-sensitive” on Snapchat? Allow us to provide you with a clear explanation. Lately, Snapchat has unveiled a range of fresh features, notably time-sensitive notifications and its ChatGPT counterpart, My AI. Let’s delve into the meaning behind time-sensitive notifications on Snapchat, and if they’re not your cup of tea, we’ll guide you on how to deactivate them.

The onset of time-sensitive notifications on Snapchat has left users in a state of puzzlement. Some find themselves concerned, while others are simply baffled by Snapchat’s newfound role in determining notification priorities. The Twittersphere is abuzz with users engaging in discussions about this somewhat awkward and recent addition to the app.

What is the Duration of Snapchat Time Sensitive Notifications?

Time-sensitive notifications on Snapchat have a duration of one hour. Once this hour elapses, the notification will vanish from both your lock screen and notification center.

Should you wish to remove time-sensitive notifications manually, a simple swipe to the left followed by a tap on “Clear” will do the trick.

Distinguished by a clock icon, these notifications persist even when your device is set to Do Not Disturb or Focus mode. This valuable feature ensures that crucial Snapchat notifications remain visible, even when your focus is directed elsewhere.

How are time-sensitive notifications operated within Snapchat?

Both iPhone and Android devices offer a Focus or Do Not Disturb mode, enabling you to customize who can reach out to you and which apps are allowed to send notifications when activated. While reducing distractions is beneficial, there are instances when you’d like to receive alerts for specific notifications, such as a call or message from your closest friend on Snapchat. This is precisely where Time Sensitive notifications step in.

Snapchat time sensitive notifications break through the barriers of Focus Mode or Do Not Disturb, making their presence known on the lock screen for a minimum of one hour to ensure you don’t overlook them.

However, the criteria Snapchat employs to classify certain notifications as time-sensitive remains a mystery. It is assumed that messages, snap replies, and new snap stories from best friends fall within the Time Sensitive category. At Beebom, we conducted tests that involved designating a friend as a BFF after subscribing to Snapchat Plus, and this led to the appearance of time-sensitive notifications on our iPhone 12. Moreover, we anticipate that this feature will also apply to your Snapchat connections, akin to a solar system of friends.

Varieties of Time-Sensitive Notifications:

 Snapchat’s time-sensitive notifications encompass the following types:

  • Imminent Disappearing Snaps: At the core of Snapchat’s functionality lies the concept of sending ephemeral photos and videos, or “Snaps.” Notifications of a time-sensitive nature might inform you about a Snap that is on the brink of disappearing.
  • Friend Requests: Alerts pertaining to new friend requests are also incorporated within this category of notifications.
  • Chat Messages: Notifications for significant messages from friends are included, ensuring you’re promptly informed.
  • Story Updates: Whenever your friends update their Stories, Snapchat employs this feature to alert you.
  • Snap Streak Notifications: Maintaining a Snap streak involves exchanging Snaps with a friend for consecutive days. Time-sensitive alerts are dispatched when a streak approaches its end. It’s important to note that not all notifications from Snapchat will bear the time-sensitive label. Notifications concerning new app features or updates, for instance, will not be classified as time-sensitive.

Disabling Time Sensitive Notifications on Snapchat

Snapchat’s Time Sensitive notification feature is a valuable addition for those who want to ensure they don’t miss critical notifications. However, it can become burdensome for individuals who prefer minimal disruptions. If you fall into the latter category, here’s a guide on how to turn off time-sensitive notifications on Snapchat:

For iPhone Users:

  • Open your iPhone’s “Settings” app.
  • Scroll down and tap on “Notifications.”
  • Locate and select the “Snapchat” section.
  • Within Snapchat’s notification settings, toggle off the “Time-Sensitive Notifications” feature.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to customize your notification experience on Snapchat according to your preferences.

Disabling Time Sensitive Notifications on Snapchat

For Android Users:

 While the Time-Sensitive notifications feature isn’t present on Android, you still have the ability to control and personalise your Snapchat notifications. Here’s the process to achieve that:

  • Launch the “Settings” app on your Android device.
  • Navigate to the “Apps” section within the settings.
  • Locate the Snapchat app either in your recent apps list or by tapping “See all apps.”
  • Once you find the Snapchat app, select it to access its settings.
  • Look for and choose the “Notifications” option.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage the notifications associated with the Snapchat app on your Android device, allowing you to tailor your experience to your preferences.

Disabling Time Sensitive Notifications on Snapchat
  • Now, proceed to disable the notification toggles for the notifications that you consider less significant.
Disabling Time Sensitive Notifications on Snapchat

Strategies for Effective Snapchat Time Sensitive Notifications Management

 Here are some valuable strategies for effectively handling time-sensitive notifications on Snapchat:

  • Customize Notification Settings: If time-sensitive notifications prove distracting, consider disabling them through your settings. This can be accomplished by adjusting the relevant options.
  • Tailor Notification Preferences: To streamline your alerts, refine your notification preferences. This can involve modifying settings for specific friends or groups, ensuring you receive only the most pertinent notifications.
  • Leverage Do Not Disturb or Focus Mode: When focusing on tasks, activate Do Not Disturb or Focus mode. Although time-sensitive notifications are designed to override these modes, enabling them can still minimize the overall distraction factor.
  • Strike a Balance: Efficiently managing time-sensitive notifications enables you to strike a balance in your Snapchat experience. This prevents overwhelming disruptions from constant alerts.
  • Personalization is Key: Keep in mind that these settings are adaptable to suit your individual preferences. You can modify them as needed, ensuring your Snapchat experience aligns with your requirements.

By implementing these strategies, you can handle time-sensitive notifications on Snapchat in a way that suits your needs and maintains a harmonious digital experience.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What does “time-sensitive” mean on Snapchat? 

“Time-sensitive” refers to a specific type of notification on Snapchat that takes precedence and is displayed prominently, even when your device is set to Do Not Disturb or Focus Mode. This feature was introduced on May 9th, 2023. Although Snapchat isn’t the only platform with this functionality; Apple integrated a similar feature into its devices years ago.

Why does Snapchat label certain notifications as “time-sensitive?” 

Snapchat designates certain notifications as “time-sensitive” to ensure they catch your attention promptly. The app’s algorithm determines that these notifications hold a high level of importance for you. However, the exact criteria by which the app identifies which notifications are crucial and which aren’t remains undisclosed.