WhatsApp's upcoming feature will auto-delete messages once they are read

21-May-2026

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WhatsApp is testing a new privacy feature allowing disappearing messages to vanish after the recipient reads them, adding more control over temporary chats. 

Spotted in iOS beta, this 'After reading' option lets senders set timers (e.g., 5 minutes, 1 hour) that start after the message is read by the recipient. Messages disappear from the sender’s view based on the timer, while recipients’ countdown begins only upon reading. Optional per-chat, it enhances privacy, with rollout timing yet unknown.