Snapchat Spotlight Hashtag Strategy: Complete Guide | ViralNow
ViralNow Logo
Platform Guide1 min readFeb 3, 2026

Snapchat Spotlight Hashtag Strategy: Complete Guide

Complete guide to hashtags on Snapchat Spotlight. Learn proven strategies to grow faster and reach more people.

Snapchat Spotlight doesn't use traditional hashtags. Discovery works differently here—understanding this can help you focus on what actually matters.

Ready to grow faster?

Let AI analyze your videos and predict viral potential.

Spotlight's Non-Hashtag Discovery

How Snapchat handles categorization:

  • Spotlight doesn't have a traditional hashtag system
  • Discovery is based on content analysis, not tags
  • The algorithm categorizes content automatically
  • Focus on content quality and native features instead
  • AR lens usage helps with categorization
  • Don't try to port hashtag strategies from other platforms

What to Focus On Instead

Where to put your effort:

  • Creating original, authentic content
  • Using Snapchat's native tools and lenses
  • Making content specifically for Snapchat's audience
  • Engagement signals (completion rate, shares)
  • Staying on top of Snapchat-specific trends

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Snapchat Spotlight use hashtags?

Not in the traditional sense. Spotlight discovery is based on content analysis rather than user-applied hashtags. Don't try to add TikTok-style hashtags—they won't help on Snapchat. Focus on content quality and using native features.

How does Spotlight categorize content without hashtags?

Snapchat's algorithm analyzes your content directly—visual elements, audio, text on screen, and engagement patterns. It categorizes and recommends based on this analysis, not user tags. This is why native, authentic content performs better than cross-posts.

Start Growing Today

Join thousands of creators using AI to optimize their content and grow faster.

Related Guides