WhatsApp tests view once disappearing text messages

WhatsApp is currently developing a new feature that will allow users to send text messages that can be opened only once before disappearing. This "view once" functionality for standard text messages is being tested in both iOS and Android beta versions, marking a significant expansion of the platform's existing privacy tools.

The feature was spotted in the WhatsApp beta for iOS version 26.24.10.16, available through Apple's TestFlight program, and is also being worked on for Android. To use it, a user will long-press the Send button after typing a message, which will open a dropdown menu with a new "Send as view once" option. Once selected and sent, the recipient will be able to open and read the message exactly one time. After that single viewing, the text content becomes completely inaccessible, vanishing from the chat or showing an expired status.

WhatsApp will enforce strict security measures to prevent the content from being preserved digitally. Recipients will not be able to copy, forward, or share the message. The app will also block screenshots and screen recordings. The feature is designed to work in both individual chats and group conversations, but it will not be...