WhatsApp is rolling out a new privacy feature that makes text messages disappear after being read. The feature allows users to send messages that recipients can open only once.
Called View Once for text messages, the feature is currently available to selected Android beta users. According to WABetaInfo, it is included in WhatsApp beta version 2.26.45.6.
WhatsApp already offers View Once options for photos, videos and voice messages. The latest update extends this functionality to regular text conversations. Unlike standard disappearing messages, the new feature does not use a countdown timer. Instead, the message becomes inaccessible after the recipient opens and closes it.
How WhatsApp View Once text messages work
The new feature allows users to send private text messages with one-time access. Users can activate it directly from the chat screen.
First, they need to type their message in the conversation. They must then press and hold the send button. A menu will appear with the View Once option. After selecting this option, users may see an explanation of the feature. They must tap OK to continue.
Once sent, the message content will not appear directly in the conversation. Instead, the recipient must tap the message to view it separately. The message disappears after the recipient closes the viewing screen. It cannot be opened again by either person. WhatsApp also marks the message as opened. Senders can see this status when read receipts are enabled.
Screenshots and forwarding are restricted
WhatsApp has introduced several restrictions to protect View Once text messages. Recipients cannot copy, forward or save these messages through the app.
The platform also blocks screenshots and screen recordings while the message is open. These restrictions aim to prevent recipients from keeping digital copies. Once viewed and closed, the message becomes inaccessible. Neither the sender nor the recipient can reopen its contents.
However, the privacy protection has certain limitations. Someone could still use another device to photograph or record the message. For example, a recipient could use a second phone to capture the screen. WhatsApp cannot fully prevent this type of external recording.
View Once messages cannot be scheduled
The current version does not support scheduling View Once text messages. WABetaInfo reported this limitation in its coverage of the feature. Users must send these messages manually through individual chats. It remains unclear whether WhatsApp plans to add scheduling support later.
When will the feature reach all users?
WhatsApp has been developing View Once text messages for several months. The feature has now reached selected Android beta testers.
It is currently available through beta version 2.26.45.6. However, not every beta user may receive access immediately. WhatsApp has not announced a general release date for Android users. The company has also not confirmed when the feature will reach iPhone users.
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For now, the feature remains limited to selected Android beta accounts. More users may receive access during the gradual rollout. The update adds another privacy option to WhatsApp’s messaging platform. It gives users greater control over how long certain text messages remain accessible.
