Snapchat filters add some level of “fun” to conversations. You can use them to turn your face into a puppy or swap them with your friends.
But while some Snapchat users cannot take their snaps without adding the feature, problems can occur where the filters won’t work. In some cases, you will not see them loading or even detecting your face.
The problem of the filters or lenses not working occurs both on iOS and Android platforms. Several reasons can explain why Snapchat filters are not working on your device.
- The filters are not available in your area
- You have a poor internet connection
- Your app is out of date
- You are using the feature in the dark
You could also be experiencing the problem because the filters you wanted were temporarily available and the creators removed them.
If Snapchat filters not working on your device, do the following:
1. Enable filters and lenses
If you cannot see a lens, you should enable the feature through your Snapchat settings. Go to:
- Settings
- Under Additional Services, tap Manage
- Toggle the Filters and Lenses feature on
After enabling the feature, go back and try to use the filters again.
2. Enable your location
Some lenses only work well depending on your location. Some focus on things like nearby events, weather, and points of interest, among others.
Because of their personalized nature, the app requires your location so that you can use them well. So, you need to enable your device location if filters won’t load.
3. Update Snapchat
Snapchat always updates the app to fix bugs and other security flaws. If you are not using the latest version, you will encounter problems with using lenses. To update your app, go to Google Play, and search for the app.
You should then check whether updates are available. Do the same by going to Apple Store if you are using an iOS device.
Sometimes you will get notifications for new updates. Ensure to follow the instructions once you get the notification.
4. Upgrade your device
If your Snapchat doesn’t have filters, you could be using an old device. You need to have a new device for the feature to work.
For Android users, the app and its features will only work on version 4.3 or later. For iOS, you need any device higher than version 4s.
5. Check your internet connection
You need a stable internet connection to ensure that the app and its features work.
If you are on mobile, turn your data connection on. Or, connect your device to a Wi-Fi network and try again.
6. Use Snapchat in a well-lit place
If the lenses are not working, they may not be detecting your face. It happens when you are using the app in the dark.
You need to have sufficient light for the filters to detect your face.
If Snapchat filters aren’t loading, they may not be available in your location. The app has a feature known as geo-filters. These are only available in specific locations. Thus, they may not work or load in your current location.
Also, you may experience a problem because of an outage. In this case, you will have to wait until Snapchat restores services.
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