WhatsApp Working on New “After Reading” Feature for Disappearing Messages

ISLAMABAD: Instant messaging platform WhatsApp is reportedly working on an update to its disappearing messages feature, introducing a new option aimed at improving user control over message visibility.

Currently, WhatsApp’s disappearing messages feature starts its timer immediately after a message is sent, which can sometimes result in messages vanishing before they are actually read.

To address this issue, WhatsApp is testing a new option called “After Reading.” The feature was recently spotted by WhatsApp Beta Info in the latest iOS beta update.

After successful testing on Android, the feature is now being rolled out to select iOS beta testers through the TestFlight program. It is expected to become available to all users in the coming weeks.

Under the new system, the disappearing timer will begin only after a message is opened, rather than when it is sent. Users will be able to set expiry durations of 5 minutes, 1 hour, or 12 hours after reading. If a message is not opened, it will automatically disappear after 24 hours.

The update is part of WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance privacy and improve messaging flexibility for its global user base.