In a major update, WhatsApp, the world's most popular messaging app, is reportedly testing a new 'view once' feature for voice notes. This feature is currently under development for both Android and iOS devices, aiming to enhance privacy and control over shared media.
The 'view once' feature, as the name suggests, allows users to send photos and videos that can only be viewed once by the recipient. After the media has been viewed, it disappears from the chat, leaving no trace.
WhatsApp's New Feature
According to a report by WABetaInfo, a website that tracks WhatsApp updates, the Facebook-owned messaging app is working on extending this feature to voice notes as well. The feature is presently under development and will be available in a future update on iOS and Android.
"WhatsApp is working on the possibility to send view once photos and videos, and the feature will also be available for voice messages,” WABetaInfo reported.
The 'view once' feature will give users an added layer of privacy, especially for those who are conscious about their shared media being stored on others' devices. The feature is also expected to save storage space on devices, as the viewed media will not be saved in the gallery or WhatsApp's media folder.
How Will The Feature Work?
When the feature rolls out, users will see a new '1' symbol next to the 'view once' photos, videos, and voice notes. This symbol will indicate that the media can only be viewed once. After viewing the media, it will disappear, and the chat will show a message stating, "Photo expired" or "Video expired" or "Voice note expired".
While the feature is a significant step towards enhancing user privacy, it's important to note that recipients can still screenshot or screen record the media before it disappears.
Other Updates
The 'view once' feature for voice notes is not the only new feature WhatsApp is testing. The app is reportedly also working on the ability to transfer chats between Android and iOS, a much-requested feature by users who switch between the two platforms.
WhatsApp has yet to officially confirm these features. However, given the company's consistent efforts to improve user experience, it's likely that these updates will be available in the near future.
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