Snapchat has revolutionized the world of social media, especially for Gen Z. One of its most beloved features is the Best Friends list, which showcases the people you frequently snap and chat with. While the Best Friends list was designed to enhance user engagement, it also has the power to impact real-life friendships. This article will explore whether direct messages (DMs) on Snapchat count towards being listed as a Best Friend and receiving hearts.
How the Best Friends List Works
The Best Friends list on Snapchat is a curated selection of friends with whom you exchange snaps frequently. It offers a glimpse into the frequency of communication and allows users to identify their closest connections. The list is updated based on the consistency and frequency of snap exchanges between users. While Snapchat keeps the exact details of the algorithm undisclosed, factors like the number of snaps sent and received, as well as the frequency of communication, are likely taken into consideration.
The Best Friends list utilizes emojis to represent the level of interaction and closeness between users. These emojis appear next to someone’s name in the Chat section and visually represent the relationship based on mutual interaction. Here are the different Best Friends emojis and their meanings:
- Yellow Heart: The Yellow Heart appears when you and a friend are each other’s #1 Best Friend or BFFs (Best Friend Forever). It signifies consistent snap exchanges and chats between both parties.
- Red Heart: The Red Heart replaces the Yellow Heart when you and a friend have been each other’s #1 Best Friend for at least two weeks. This indicates a strong and enduring friendship or connection.
- Pink Hearts: The Pink Hearts appear when you and a friend have been each other’s #1 Best Friend for two consecutive months. It represents a long-standing and close relationship.
It’s important to note that the Best Friends emojis are only visible to you and the person with whom you share the interaction. They are not public or visible to other friends on Snapchat.
The Role of DMs in Best Friends and Hearts
Now, let’s address the question at hand: Do DMs in Snapchat count toward being listed as a Best Friend and receiving hearts? The answer is yes, they do. Snapchat explicitly states that Best Friends are the friends you “Snap and Chat” with the most. This means that both snaps and chats contribute to the determination of Best Friends.
While snapping refers to sending pictures or videos, chatting involves sending text messages through the app. Therefore, engaging in conversations through DMs on Snapchat does count towards your Best Friends list and receiving hearts. However, it’s important to understand that there is a distinction between chatting and snapping. Sending an image or video from your gallery as a chat does not contribute to your snapstreak with someone.
The Impact of Best Friends on Friendships
While the Best Friends feature can reinforce and strengthen existing friendships, it can also introduce complexities and potential strains. Being listed as a Best Friend can provide validation and recognition, indicating significant engagement and trust. However, it can also lead to feelings of exclusion and jealousy among friends.
If someone’s name is absent from your Best Friends list, it may trigger feelings of insecurity. Being excluded from someone else’s list can make individuals feel overlooked or undervalued. It’s crucial to remember that the Best Friends list is just one aspect of the Snapchat experience and should not be taken as a definitive measure of friendship or worth.
Managing Your Best Friends List
Snapchat allows users to have up to eight Best Friends. However, you may wonder if there’s a way to remove someone from your list or add someone new. Unfortunately, Snapchat does not provide a direct option to remove someone from your Best Friends list. The algorithm automatically updates the list based on your snap exchanges.
To manage your Best Friends list, you can focus on engaging more with the friends you want to see on the list. By frequently snapping and chatting with specific individuals, you increase the likelihood of them appearing on your Best Friends list. Additionally, you can explore other features on Snapchat, such as streaks and private stories, to strengthen your connections with friends.
Staying Informed with Snapchat’s Updates
Snapchat continually updates its functionalities and features, including the Best Friends list and emojis. It’s essential to stay informed about these updates to understand how they may impact your Snapchat experience. Keeping up to date with the latest information provided by Snapchat helps you navigate the app’s features and use them to your advantage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, DMs in Snapchat do count towards being listed as a Best Friend and receiving hearts. The Best Friends list offers a glimpse into the frequency of communication and closeness between users, while the emojis represent the level of interaction. However, it’s essential to remember that the Best Friends list is just one aspect of Snapchat and should not define the value of friendships. Managing your Best Friends list involves engaging with specific individuals, and staying informed about Snapchat’s updates ensures you make the most of the app’s features. So, continue snapping, chatting, and building meaningful connections on Snapchat
