WhatsApp Introduces New Self-Deleting Messages Option

WhatsApp has announced a new self-deleting messages feature that allows users to automatically delete messages as soon as the recipient has read them. This feature is referred to as "after reading" and complements the existing options of 24 hours, 7 days, and 90 days. The new option will be introduced in the lower section of the relevant settings menu of the messenger. Users can set the time period after which the messages will disappear once they have been read. The available time periods are 12 hours, 1 hour, and 5 minutes.

The previous options will remain in the upper section of the menu. These time periods apply from the date of sending the message, while the new time periods will only become active from the moment the recipient reads the message. However, unread messages will still be deleted after 24 hours. The feature is currently in the development phase and is not yet available to all WhatsApp users. WABetainfo, a portal specializing in new features of the messenger, discovered this innovation in the beta version 2.26.15.11 for Android.

To activate the self-deleting messages, users need to open the respective chat and click on the contact's name. There, they can make the desired setting under the menu item "Self-Deleting Messages." Alternatively, it is also possible to enable the feature under "Settings, Privacy, Self-Deleting Messages" for all chats. The introduction of this feature could make WhatsApp usage safer and more private for many users. Self-deleting messages are particularly significant in sensitive conversations, as they reduce the risk of confidential information being permanently stored.

WhatsApp has previously implemented various privacy features to meet user demands. The new option could be seen as a response to growing concerns regarding privacy and data security in digital communication. The feature is expected to be available in future updates for all users once the development phase is completed. WhatsApp has not yet announced an official date for the general availability of the new feature. The introduction of the new self-deleting messages option could also impact the use of messaging services in general, as other platforms may introduce similar features to remain competitive. The beta version of WhatsApp in which the new feature was discovered is 2.26.15.11, available for Android users.