WhatsApp launches disappearing messages feature; all you need to know

WhatsApp launches disappearing messages feature; all you need to know

One can send messages that disappear on WhatsApp by enabling disappearing messages. Once enabled, new messages sent in the individual or group chat will disappear after seven days

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Vivek Dubey
  • Nov 5, 2020,
  • Updated Nov 5, 2020 7:15 PM IST

Facebook-owned cross-platform messaging application WhatsApp has started rolling out the disappearing messages feature for users.

"When disappearing messages is turned on, new messages sent to a chat will disappear after 7 days, helping the conversation feel lighter and more private," said WhatsApp in a statement.

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The messaging app's arch-rival Snapchat already has a feature which automatically deletes most messages once they've been viewed or expired. Disappearing messages were even one of Snapchat's most popular features.

The company said that this will help users experience a new level of privacy. "In a one-to-one chat, either person can turn disappearing messages on or off. In a group chat, only group admins can turn disappearing messages on or off," it added.  

"We're starting with seven days because we think it offers peace of mind that conversations aren't permanent while remaining practical so you don't forget what you were chatting about. The shopping list or store address you received a few days ago will be there while you need it, and then disappear after by our don't," WhatsApp added.

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However, users will still be able to take a screenshot or forward a disappearing message before it disappears. They can also copy, save or take a photo of the message before it disappears.

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Facebook-owned cross-platform messaging application WhatsApp has started rolling out the disappearing messages feature for users.

"When disappearing messages is turned on, new messages sent to a chat will disappear after 7 days, helping the conversation feel lighter and more private," said WhatsApp in a statement.

Advertisement

The messaging app's arch-rival Snapchat already has a feature which automatically deletes most messages once they've been viewed or expired. Disappearing messages were even one of Snapchat's most popular features.

The company said that this will help users experience a new level of privacy. "In a one-to-one chat, either person can turn disappearing messages on or off. In a group chat, only group admins can turn disappearing messages on or off," it added.  

"We're starting with seven days because we think it offers peace of mind that conversations aren't permanent while remaining practical so you don't forget what you were chatting about. The shopping list or store address you received a few days ago will be there while you need it, and then disappear after by our don't," WhatsApp added.

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However, users will still be able to take a screenshot or forward a disappearing message before it disappears. They can also copy, save or take a photo of the message before it disappears.

For Unparalleled coverage of India's Businesses and Economy – Subscribe to Business Today Magazine

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