WhatsApp’s latest feature could mean big changes for the group chat

WhatsApp is set to introduce a new feature which will see messages disappear after seven days, it has been announced today.

In a blog post, WhatsApp said that users will have the option to turn the disappearing messages feature on and if they do so, new messages sent to a chat will ‘disappear after seven days, helping the conversation feel lighter and more private’. In a WhatsApp group, the admin will have control over whether or not the disappearing messages function is turned on so if you’re the type to send messages that will come back to haunt you, be sure to have a chat with the head honcho.

Facebook, which owns WhatsApp, said: “We’re starting with seven days because we think it offers peace of mind that conversations aren’t permanent, while remaining practical so you don’t forget what you were chatting about. The shopping list or store address you received a few days ago will be there while you need it, and then disappear after you don’t”. The company added that “we hope people enjoy disappearing messages, which will be rolling out to users everywhere this month”.

A word of warning was also issued for users to ensure they only use the disappearing messages feature with trusted individuals because people will still be able to:

• Forward or take a screenshot of a disappearing message and save it before it disappears.
• Copy and save content from the disappearing message before it disappears.
• Take a photo of a disappearing message with a camera or other device before it disappears.

You can read more about WhatsApp’s disappearing messages feature here.

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