Why did Snapchat move the back button?

Snapchat recently made a UI change that caught the attention of its user base—the relocation of the back button. This seemingly minor adjustment sparked curiosity and the question right now on many users' minds is: Why did Snapchat move the back button?

In the dynamic realm of mobile apps, UI changes are a common occurrence. Recent examples include TikTok's font change and Snapchat's switch from blue to red dots for indicating unread messages. And there is always a reason behind each adjustment.

In this article, we delve into the motivations behind Snapchat's decision, exploring the factors that led to the relocation of the back button and the implications it has on the overall user experience.

Why did Snapchat move the back button?

Snapchat moved the back button to the left to improve usability.

Previously, the back button was positioned next to the video call button, resulting in numerous users inadvertently tapping the video call button instead of the back button. These unintended taps caused frustration and disrupted the flow of users' interactions with the app.

The new placement on the left side of the screen makes it more distinct and less prone to accidental taps. By separating it from the video call button, users can now confidently navigate back within the app without the fear of triggering an unintended action.

User feedback made this change happen

Many Snapchatters were unhappy with the placement of the back button within the Snapchat interface. In response to this widespread discontent, a group of proactive users took matters into their own hands by creating a petition on Change.org.

Recognizing the magnitude of this issue, Snapchat actively listened to user feedback and acknowledged their concerns. The company understood the importance of ensuring a seamless and intuitive user experience and decided to move the back button.

Overall, this adjustment reflects Snapchat's commitment to refining its interface based on user feedback and ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for its users.