The Snapchat logo was created by Evan Spiegel, the app’s co-founder, during its early development phase in 2011 when the app was still called Picaboo. Spiegel drew the ghost-shaped icon himself, choosing yellow as the background color after noticing it was unused by other major apps. This original design featured a cheeky ghost smiling and sticking out its tongue, giving the app a lighthearted and youthful vibe.

2013 — Minimalist Ghost

In 2013, Snapchat simplified its logo, removing the facial expression from the ghost. This change aimed to make the ghost a blank canvas, representing the variety of emotions and interactions shared by the app’s users.

2019 — Refined Boldness

The current version of the Snapchat logo, introduced in 2019, maintained its minimalist design while enhancing visibility. The ghost now features a thicker black outline, making it more striking and recognizable from a distance. There is also an alternative design with a black-dotted yellow box and border, but the core visual identity remains the same.

Design Elements of the Snapchat Logo

Font

Snapchat takes part in a modern trend by excluding text from its logo, letting the ghost speak for itself. Its iconographic style ensures users instantly recognize the brand without the need for a wordmark.

Color Palette

The logo’s bold combination of yellow, white, and black has been a staple since its inception. Yellow symbolizes creativity, energy, and fun, while black outlines add clarity and contrast. The updated shade of yellow in the current logo is brighter, giving it a contemporary and “electric” feel.

Adaptable Icons

Snapchat’s ghost icon is versatile, appearing in different forms depending on the context. Whether it’s a standalone ghost, a ghost on a yellow square, or variations in black, yellow, and white, the logo’s essence remains instantly recognizable by millions worldwide.

Legacy and Recognition

The Snapchat logo embodies the platform’s core values—fun, spontaneity, and ephemerality. Its straightforward yet powerful design has evolved to meet modern aesthetics while staying true to its playful origins. With its iconic ghost and vibrant yellow hue, Snapchat’s logo is a masterclass in minimalist branding, standing out in a sea of app icons.