WhatsApp Enhances Privacy with New “Disappearing After Reading” Feature
WhatsApp is bolstering its privacy features with a new option that allows messages to disappear shortly after being read, adding another layer of control for users concerned about message longevity. The feature, currently in development for Android beta users, builds upon the existing disappearing messages functionality and aims to provide more granular control over message visibility.
How the “Disappearing After Reading” Feature Works
The new feature, spotted in WhatsApp beta version 2.26.12.2 on the Google Play Store [WABetaInfo], introduces a “After reading” timer option for disappearing messages. Currently, users can set messages to disappear after 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days. This new addition offers a shorter timeframe, specifically 15 minutes after the message has been read.
If a recipient hasn’t opened the message, it will automatically disappear after 24 hours. On the sender’s side, the message will be removed 15 minutes after being sent, regardless of whether it has been read. This ensures both parties eventually lose access to the message, enhancing privacy. Users will have the ability to apply this setting to individual chats or across all conversations.
Privacy and Control for Sensitive Information
This feature is designed for situations where short-lived messages are preferred, such as sharing sensitive information, quick updates, or temporary details [WABetaInfo]. Even if read receipts are disabled, the timer will still function, maintaining privacy without relying on read status confirmation.
Current Status and Availability
The “After reading” option is still under development and is expected to be released in a future update. WhatsApp is currently refining the feature before rolling it out to beta testers, followed by a wider public release [WABetaInfo].
What’s New in WhatsApp 2.26.12.70
WhatsApp recently released a release candidate version 2.26.12.70 for Android, which includes bug fixes from previous beta versions. This version is considered more stable than a typical beta and is recommended for non-beta testers. Beta testers are advised to hold off on updating to this release candidate as it is intended for those not actively participating in beta testing [WABetaInfo].
Users interested in joining the WhatsApp beta program can do so through the Google Play Store [Google Play].
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