After introducing the view once photos and videos, WhatsApp is now working on a new feature which will allow users to send text messages that can only be viewed once before disappearing permanently. The feature is currently under development and may be introduced in the coming weeks.
As per the WabetaInfo report, the references of the feature have been spotted in the recent beta versions of the app for both iOS and Android. However, this is not available for testing yet. The report suggested that WhatsApp is looking to offer users more control over how sensitive information is shared within chats.
This new feature might fill the long-standing gap, as the users were allowed to send disappearing messages or View Once media, as there was no dedicated option for sending text that automatically becomes inaccessible after being opened.
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As per the reports, the users will reportedly be able to activate the feature by long-pressing the sending button after typing a message. A Send as View Once option is said to appear, which allows the text to be delivered in a format that can only be opened a single time by the receiver.
Once viewed, the message will disappear and can no longer be accessed. Just like View Once photos and videos, the platform is said to prevent receivers from copying, forwarding or sharing. Screenshot and screen recording restrictions may also be applied to reduce the chances of messages being preserved.
The feature is said to work in both individual and group chats, though it is unlikely to be available in Channels. Do note that the company has not confirmed the details about the upcoming feature yet and we may have to wait to know more.