New Delhi: WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new privacy-focused feature that could significantly change how disappearing messages function on the platform. The feature, currently under testing, is expected to allow messages to automatically delete after they are read by the recipient, offering users more precise control over their conversations.

The development was first reported by WABetaInfo, which spotted the feature in the iOS beta version 26.19.10.72 available through Apple’s TestFlight programme. At present, the feature is accessible only to a limited number of beta testers, but it is expected to expand gradually.

How the new feature is expected to work

WhatsApp already offers a disappearing messages feature that allows users to set messages to delete after a fixed duration such as 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days. However, the upcoming “after reading” option is designed to add a more dynamic layer to this system.

With this feature enabled, messages will remain in the chat until the recipient opens and reads them. Only after the message is read will the countdown timer begin. Once the selected time limit expires, the message will be automatically removed from the chat.

For instance, if a user selects a five-minute timer, the message on the sender’s device will disappear five minutes after it is sent. On the recipient’s device, however, the timer will only start after the message is opened. This ensures that messages do not expire before being seen, addressing a limitation in the current disappearing messages system.

Default expiry for unread messages

Another important aspect of the feature is how it handles unread messages. According to the report, if a recipient does not open a message, it will still be automatically deleted after a default period of 24 hours.

This ensures that messages do not remain indefinitely in chats, even if they are ignored or missed. It also aligns with WhatsApp’s broader approach to balancing privacy with usability.

Timer options and flexibility

The feature is expected to offer multiple timer options, allowing users to decide how quickly messages should disappear after being read. These options may include durations such as five minutes, one hour, and up to 12 hours.

Additionally, the feature is likely to be optional and configurable on a per-chat basis. This means users can enable it only for specific conversations where privacy is a concern, rather than applying it across all chats.

Such flexibility could make the feature particularly useful for sharing sensitive information such as passwords, one-time passcodes, or personal details that users may not want to remain accessible for long periods.

Strengthening privacy controls

The introduction of this feature highlights WhatsApp’s continued focus on enhancing user privacy. In recent years, the platform has rolled out several tools, including end-to-end encryption, view-once media, and chat lock features.

The “after reading” disappearing messages option builds on these efforts by giving users more control over when and how their messages disappear. Unlike the current system, which relies solely on a fixed timer from the moment a message is sent, this feature ensures that the lifecycle of a message is tied to user interaction.

Limitations and considerations

Despite its advantages, the feature does not guarantee complete privacy. Recipients may still take screenshots or use screen recording tools to capture messages before they disappear.

Moreover, the feature depends on the recipient opening the message for the timer to begin, which could introduce slight inconsistencies in how long messages remain visible across devices.

Users should therefore view this feature as an added layer of privacy rather than a foolproof solution.

Availability and rollout timeline

As of now, there is no official confirmation from WhatsApp regarding the public rollout of this feature. Since it is still in the beta testing phase, it may undergo further refinements before being released to all users.

Typically, features tested in beta versions are rolled out in stages, so it may take a few weeks or months before the “after reading” option becomes widely available.

Conclusion

The upcoming “after reading” disappearing messages feature represents a meaningful upgrade to WhatsApp’s privacy toolkit. By ensuring that messages are deleted only after being read, it addresses a key limitation of the current system and offers users greater control over their conversations.

If implemented effectively, the feature could become a valuable tool for users seeking more secure and temporary communication on WhatsApp.