WhatsApp Testing New Privacy Feature That Auto Deletes Messages Minutes After Reading

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new privacy feature aimed at improving chat security for its users. The upcoming feature could automatically delete messages shortly after they are read, helping users keep their conversations more private.

Currently, messages sent on WhatsApp remain visible in chats unless they are manually deleted. However, the new update being tested may change that experience by automatically removing messages within minutes after they are viewed.

Messages May Disappear After Reading

The feature is expected to be called After Reading. Once enabled, a message will disappear from the chat shortly after the recipient reads it. Reports suggest that messages could automatically delete within about 15 minutes after being opened.

This option could be especially useful for users who frequently share sensitive information such as passwords, verification codes, or personal details. Once the message is read, it will not stay in the conversation for long.

Additional Privacy Control for Users

WhatsApp already provides disappearing messages that delete chats after 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days. The new feature is designed to offer stronger privacy by allowing messages to vanish much faster after they are read.

Even if a user disables read receipts or blue ticks, the auto delete function is expected to work in the background. This ensures that messages disappear based on the reading action rather than notification settings.

How the Feature Could Work

If the recipient reads the message, it may disappear automatically within about 15 minutes. If the message remains unopened, it could automatically delete itself after 24 hours.

The feature would allow users to send temporary information in chats without worrying about it remaining in the conversation permanently.

Availability and Testing Phase

The feature has reportedly been spotted in the Android WhatsApp beta version by testers. However, it has not yet been released for regular users, and WhatsApp has not officially confirmed when it will roll out globally.

Once introduced, the privacy feature is expected to work across all chats. Users should remember that once a message disappears, it cannot be recovered. If needed, recipients may still save information by taking a screenshot or copying the message before it vanishes.