WhatsApp may soon let messages disappear after being read: Here is how it works
Follow UsNew “after reading” timer will delete messages only once the recipient opens them
Multiple duration options expected, ranging from minutes to several hours
Feature to roll out first to beta users before a wider public release
WhatsApp is yet again in the limelight and this time for its new privacy-focused feature, which can give users more control over how long their messages remain visible. According to a WaBetaInfo report, the Meta-owned messaging platform is developing an option that allows messages to automatically disappear after the recipient has read them.
SurveyCurrently, the feature is under development and has been spotted in recent Android beta builds. If you are thinking that WhatsApp already offers disappearing messages with fixed durations such as 24 hours, 7 days, and 90 days, then how is it different? So, the answer is that the users may get to set messages to vanish shortly after they are opened, much like Snapchat.
The early details suggest that multiple time options may be available for this after reading, including short durations like a few minutes or extended periods of several hours. This would allow users to customise message visibility based on context and sensitivity.
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The feature is also said to coexist with the current disappearing message system. While the disappearing message starts counting down immediately after a message is sent, the new option will trigger only once the recipient views the message. This means unread messages could remain intact until opened, after which a countdown begins before deletion.
The company is also reportedly working on an updated interface to manage these settings more intuitively. Users may be able to apply the feature across all chats or enable it selectively for specific conversations.
It must be noted that the feature is not available to the public; it is said to roll out to beta testers first and will eventually roll out to the public in the coming weeks with future updates.
