BeReal Guide for 2026: How It Works, Features, and Tips

Diego Martinez

a person holding a cell phone in their hand

BeReal continues to stand out in 2026 as a social media app focused on authenticity over perfection. Instead of curated feeds and endless scrolling, BeReal encourages users to share a real moment from their day—no filters, no edits, no pressure.

This guide explains how BeReal works in 2026, its latest features, and tips to get the most out of the app.


What Is BeReal?

BeReal is a social media app that prompts users once per day to post a photo of what they’re doing at that exact moment.

Key ideas:

  • One notification per day
  • Two‑minute posting window
  • Front and rear cameras used at the same time
  • No filters or heavy editing

✅ The goal is to show real life, not highlight reels.


How BeReal Works in 2026

Daily Notification

Once every day, at a random time, BeReal sends a notification:

“Time to BeReal.”

You have 2 minutes to post your BeReal.


Taking a BeReal

When you tap the notification:

  • The app uses both front and back cameras
  • You take a photo instantly
  • Minimal retakes allowed (friends can see how many)

Late posts are still allowed, but marked as “Late”.


Viewing Friends’ BeReals

You must post your own BeReal before viewing others.

  • No infinite scrolling
  • Only one main post per friend per day
  • Bonus BeReals may be allowed occasionally

BeReal Features in 2026

1. Memories

  • Private archive of past BeReals
  • View posts by date or calendar
  • Export or save memories locally

2. RealMoji Reactions

React to friends’ BeReals using selfies instead of emojis.

  • Custom RealMojis
  • Quick, personal reactions
  • No public like counts

3. Friends‑Only Feed

BeReal remains friends‑only by default.

  • No follower counts
  • No public metrics
  • Optional discovery features may exist but are limited

4. Bonus BeReals

Occasionally, users can post additional BeReals after the daily one.

  • Visible to friends
  • Clearly marked as bonus content
  • Still unedited and unfiltered

5. Location & Privacy Controls

  • Optional location sharing
  • Post visibility settings
  • Screenshot notifications (in some regions)

BeReal vs Other Social Apps (2026)

FeatureBeRealInstagramTikTok
Filters❌ No✅ Yes✅ Yes
Daily limit✅ Yes❌ No❌ No
AlgorithmsMinimalHeavyHeavy
Authentic focus✅ HighMediumLow

✅ BeReal is still best for casual, low‑pressure social sharing.


Tips for Using BeReal in 2026

Be on Time (But Don’t Stress)

Posting on time keeps the spirit of the app, but late posts are totally fine.


Don’t Overthink It

The best BeReals are boring, messy, and normal—that’s the point.


Use RealMojis Creatively

Funny or expressive RealMojis help you stay engaged without likes or comments.


Check Memories Occasionally

BeReal works well as a digital daily journal over time.


Is BeReal Still Worth Using in 2026?

Yes, if you:

  • Want a low‑pressure social app
  • Prefer friends over influencers
  • Are tired of algorithm‑driven feeds

Maybe not, if you:

  • Enjoy curated content and editing
  • Want growth, reach, or monetization
  • Prefer frequent posting

Final Thoughts

In 2026, BeReal remains a refreshing alternative to traditional social media. Its simple design, daily routine, and focus on real moments make it ideal for staying connected without stress.

What Time Will BeReal Go Off Today?

What time will BeReal go off today? This is a question on the minds of many who use the app. The truth is, the BeReal notification comes at a random time each day, making it challenging to predict. You could receive the alert any time between 9:00 AM and 11:59 PM. This uncertainty keeps things exciting and encourages users to share genuine moments from their daily lives.

BeReal’s concept is simple yet unique. Instead of planning your posts, you get a notification and have just two minutes to capture and share a photo. This spontaneity is key to the app’s appeal. By using both the front and back cameras, BeReal captures your face and your surroundings, showcasing unfiltered slices of life.

For those striving to make the most of their BeReal experience, it’s important to stay ready. Since the notification can come at any moment, users need to be prepared to snap a quick photo that represents their true selves. Authenticity is the central theme, and that’s what makes it so engaging.

Key Takeways

  • BeReal notifications come at random times each day.
  • Users have two minutes to capture and share a photo.
  • Authenticity and spontaneity are core to the BeReal experience.

Understanding BeReal Notifications

BeReal notifications appear at random times each day, urging users to post snapshots of their moments. The timing varies daily and can differ by region.

The Concept of BeReal Time

BeReal sends out a notification at a random time each day. This notification prompts users to capture and share a picture within a two-minute window using the app’s front and back cameras. This approach aims to show real, unfiltered moments rather than staged photos. The randomness of the notifications makes it difficult to plan around them, encouraging genuine spontaneity.

Time Zone Considerations for BeReal

Users across the globe receive BeReal notifications at the same local time within their respective time zones. For example, users in Europe might get their alert simultaneously but at different hours compared to users in the Americas. This way, every region experiences BeReal moments suited to their time zone, avoiding disruptions like notifications in the middle of the night. Time zone adjustments ensure that participation remains practical and user-friendly.

Responding to BeReal Alerts

When a BeReal notification is received, users have a two-minute window to capture and post a photo. The app uses both the front and back cameras to provide a dual perspective. If users miss the two-minute window, they can still post later, but their posts will be marked as “late.” Prompt posting aligns with the app’s goal of capturing real-life moments.

Maximizing the BeReal Experience

To get the most out of BeReal, it’s important to know how to use the app well and make the most of its features effectively. Focus on the key points below to enhance your BeReal moments.

Navigating the BeReal App

The BeReal app is simple to use, but knowing a few tips can improve your experience. Each day, a notification tells you it’s time to post. Open the app quickly—you have only a two-minute window. The app uses both front and back cameras, so make sure your phone is ready.

Add friends to make the app more fun. Seeing each other’s posts can be really enjoyable. Sometimes, the notification comes at unpredictable times, so keep an eye on your phone.

Creating Memorable Posts

Since you only get two minutes to take a photo, think fast. Use both cameras to capture interesting moments. Show your location and your surroundings for a dynamic post. Videos add variety, so try shooting some when you can.

If you don’t like your first shot, you can retake it. Just remember, authenticity is the key. Share real moments, not just the highlights. This makes BeReal special. Your friends want to see the real you.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, you might face issues with the app. If you miss the notification or it doesn’t show up, try restarting the app. Also, check your phone settings to make sure notifications are enabled.

The app might be slow or glitchy at times, especially when many users are active. If this happens, be patient and try again. Screenshotting posts can be tricky; if they don’t save, make sure your phone’s storage isn’t full. Regular updates usually fix common bugs, so keep the app current.

Using these tips will help you enjoy BeReal more. Have fun capturing true moments and sharing with friends.