WhatsApp is adding a feature to make chats more private. The messaging platform is testing a “View-Once” disappearing message feature for iPhone users. This feature was first seen on Android. Is now being rolled out to some iOS beta testers and it was spotted by WABetaInfo in WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.19.10.72. The new feature helps make conversations more private by deleting messages after they are read. WhatsApp already has disappearing messages and view-once media. This new system combines both. It gives users control over temporary chats.
WhatsApp’s New View-Once Disappearing Message Feature
The new feature adds an “After Reading” option in WhatsApp disappearing messages settings. Of deleting messages after a fixed time the timer starts after the recipient opens the message.
For example:
- You send a message with a 5-minute timer.
- The message stays in the chat until the other person reads it.
- Once the message is opened the countdown starts.
- After 5 minutes WhatsApp deletes the message.
WhatsApp is testing timer options:
- 5 minutes
- 1 hour
- 12 hours
Unread messages may auto-delete after 24 hours if they are never opened.
How Does It Work?
The feature works through WhatsApp’s existing disappearing message settings.
Here are the steps:
- Open a WhatsApp chat
- Tap the contact or group name
- Go to Disappearing Messages
- Select the new After Reading option
- Choose a timer duration
Once enabled messages in that chat will disappear after they are read and the timer expires.
How is it Different From Disappearing Messages?
The new feature and regular disappearing messages work differently.
- Timer starts: For disappearing messages the timer starts immediately after sending. For View Once the timer starts after the message is read.
- Timers: Disappearing messages have 24 hours, 7 days and 90 days. View Once has 5 minutes, 1 hour and 12 hours.
- Unread message handling: Disappearing messages may disappear before being read. View Once stays until opened or 24-hour expiry.
The biggest difference is practicality. The current disappearing messages feature may delete a message before the recipient even checks WhatsApp.
The new system ensures the recipient sees the message before the countdown begins.
Is This the Same as View-Once Photos and Videos?
No it is not the same. WhatsApp already allows users to send view-once photos, videos and voice messages. These disappear immediately after being opened. The new feature is for chat messages and offers flexible timers.
This makes it more useful for:
- Sharing OTPs
- Passwords
- Sensitive conversations
- Work-related chats
- Personal information that shouldn’t stay permanently in chat history
When Will It Roll Out?
The feature is currently available to some beta testers using WhatsApp beta, for iOS version 26.19.10.72. WhatsApp has not announced a rollout date yet but broader testing is expected soon.
