Snapchat export only has links, no photos? Here is why

A Memories export can come as an index.html page plus a history file that lists each memory with a download link, instead of the photos themselves. Snapchat’s own instructions say to unzip it, open index.html in a browser, click Memories, and download the memories individually or all at once. Do this soon: download links do not stay valid forever.

Getting the files

Unzip the export and double-click index.html to open it in your browser.
Click Memories in the left menu and use the option to download all of them (or one by one).
If downloads fail, the links may have expired — request a new export from My Data and download it promptly.

Source: Snapchat’s instructions, checked November 3, 2026.

Can MemoriesBack use the links?

Not yet. MemoriesBack works on exports that contain the media files themselves (the -main.jpg, -overlay.png and video files). It does not fetch photos from download links. If your export has only links, download the media first or request an export that includes it, then repair that.

Keep the history file

Whichever way you get the files, keep memories_history.json (or the history page) — it is where the exact dates and locations are listed. See what is inside memories_history.json.

Questions

How long do the download links work?

Snapchat does not publish an exact time. Treat them as temporary and download the media as soon as you can.

Repair my export — oldest 100 photos free

Updated November 3, 2026. Files are processed in your browser and never uploaded. Full export $9.99 one time.