Snapchat has always been a storytelling platform quick, raw, and personal. But as users share more of their lives online, privacy controls have become more important than ever. One of Snapchat’s most loved features is the Private Story, a customizable space where you decide exactly who gets to see your snaps.
But what happens when you’ve already created a private story and want to include someone new maybe a friend you recently added, or someone you forgot to include earlier?
Good news: Snapchat allows you to add new people to an existing private story in just a few taps.
This guide breaks down what the feature is, why people use it, who can be added, and how to do it complete with tips, notes, and FAQs.
What Is a Private Story on Snapchat?
A Private Story is a customized Snapchat story visible only to a specific group of people selected by the user. Unlike public or friends-only stories, private stories give complete control over your audience.
Key Features:
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Only selected users can view the story
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They cannot see who else is on the list
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You can add or remove people anytime
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You can run multiple private stories at once
Private Stories are widely used for sharing personal moments, inside jokes, close-friend updates, or sensitive content.
Can You Add Someone to an Already Created Private Story?
Yes, absolutely. Snapchat allows users to edit an existing private story and adjust the audience list whenever needed.
This means you can add:
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Newly added friends
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Friends you accidentally left out
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People you now trust enough to share your story with
Snapchat does not notify users when they are added or removed from a private story.
How to Add Someone to an Existing Private Story on Snapchat
Follow these simple steps to update your private story audience:
Step 1: Open Snapchat
Launch the app on your device and ensure you’re logged in.
Step 2: Tap Your Profile Icon
Located at the top-left corner of the home screen.
Step 3: Find Your Private Story
Scroll down to the “My Stories” section.
You will see your private story labeled (e.g., “Private Story,” “Close Friends,” or your custom name).
Step 4: Select “…” (More Options)
Tap the three-dot menu next to your private story.
Step 5: Tap “Edit Viewers”
A list of your friends will appear.
Step 6: Add New People
Simply check the box next to the friends you want to add.
Step 7: Save
Snapchat automatically saves changes when you exit the screen.
That’s it.
Your new viewers can now see all new snaps you post to that private story.
Why Would Someone Add New People Later?
There are several real-life reasons users update their private story audience:
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You made new friends and want them in your inner circle
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You forgot to include someone during the initial setup
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You want to share specific content with a different group
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Your trust level changed with certain people
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You’re building a content-specific private story (fitness, travel diaries, close-friends updates)
Important Things to Know Before Adding Someone
Here are key facts many Snapchat users overlook:
1. They Won’t See Old Snaps
Anyone newly added can only view future posts not past private story content.
2. They Won’t Get a Notification
Snapchat protects your privacy. Users don’t get alerts that you’ve added them.
3. They Can See the Private Story Label
They will see something like:
“Sagar’s Private Story”
But they won’t see who else is part of it.
4. You Can Remove Them Anytime
Just uncheck their name from the Edit Viewers list.
5. You Can Add Unlimited People
While there’s no strict limit, Snapchat may restrict very large lists to maintain privacy and performance.
Troubleshooting: Why You Might Not See the Option
If you cannot add someone, these might be the reasons:
1. They Haven’t Accepted Your Friend Request
You can only add mutual friends to private stories.
2. They Blocked You
You won’t be able to modify their viewing permissions.
3. You Are Trying to Add a Public Figure
Public accounts may not have private story access.
4. App Version is Outdated
Update Snapchat to the latest version to access all features.
Privacy Tips for Safe Story Sharing
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Avoid adding people impulsively
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Regularly review your viewer list
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Use custom private stories for categories (Friends, Gym, Work, Family)
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Don’t overshare personal info
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Use Snapchat’s “My Eyes Only” for sensitive content
FAQs
1. Will people know if I add them to my private story?
No. Snapchat does not notify them.
2. Can they see older snaps?
No, only snaps you upload after adding them.
3. Can I remove people later?
Yes, simply uncheck their names under Edit Viewers.
4. Can someone tell if they are removed?
No, they just stop seeing updates from that story.
5. Can I add someone who isn’t my friend?
No. Mutual friendship is required.
6. Can I create multiple private stories?
Yes, and each can have unique audiences.
Conclusion
Adding someone to an already created private story on Snapchat is simple, flexible, and privacy-friendly. Whether you’re expanding your circle or creating more personalized content, Snapchat gives you the tools to control your audience effortlessly.
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