What is the disappearing messages feature and why is it needed? WhatsApp users will be able to send photo and video messages for one-time viewing by the recipient.
WhatsApp launches the function of sending disappearing photos and videos in messages. This is stated in the official blog of the company.
What are disappearing photo and video messages?
The new feature allows you to send photos and videos for a single viewing by the recipient. Media disappears from an individual or group chat after the user has opened it and left the viewer.
Such files are marked with a new icon with a one in a circle. After viewing a photo or video, the message will be marked “Open”.
The recipient cannot save disappearing photos and videos in the “Photos” or “Gallery”, as well as forward them to another user or add to favorites.
If the user does not open an incoming message with a photo or video marked “1” within 14 days, the files will disappear from the chat.
The company says that photos and videos set to one-time view are end-to-end encrypted like all private chats. Therefore, the messenger cannot see them.
Why did you introduce the function of one-time viewing of files?
On many devices, photos and videos sent to WhatsApp are automatically saved to the gallery and take up space on the phone's memory. The company believes that not all files that users exchange in correspondence should be saved on a smartphone forever. For example, one-time viewing can be set in the event that you send a loved one a photo of clothes that you are trying on in a store.
Also, the new feature allows users to share any confidential information. For example, a Wi-Fi password.
WhatsApp warns that the recipient can take a screenshot or screen recording of the open media file for one-time viewing, or take a photo or video using another device. Therefore, only people you trust should send confidential photos or videos using the new feature.
When will the new feature be available?
Some WhatsApp users have already activated the function of sending a message with disappearing photos and videos. The rest will have it available this week, the company promises.
How do I send disappearing messages?
To send disappearing media files to WhatsApp, you need to go to the chat, click “Attach” and select “Camera” to take a new photo or video, or “Photo / video” or “Gallery” to select an existing photo or video on your phone. Then click the number one icon and “Send”.
