WhatsApp, in its newest update, has rolled out the disappearing image and video feature to all users running on the stable build of the app, after being a part of the beta update a few weeks ago.
The new update allows users to share an image or video that can be sent specifically to be viewed only once, for a specific time frame, after which the image would instantly disappear.
How to send WhatsApp disappearing messages
First, make sure your phone is running on the latest version of WhatsApp. After updating your app, select the media and tap on the icon that looks like a timer, right near the ‘Add caption’ tab. After this, the sender can choose to add a caption and directly send the file.
When the media gets opened the sender of the image receives a notification for the same. It shows three separate status checks — sent, seen and lastly when it’s opened.
When a disappearing image is opened, the image displays a message — “This photo is set to view once. For more privacy, this photo will disappear after you close it.” It is important to note, however, that in case the recipient has disabled read receipts for messages, the sender won’t be notified upon opening the image.
In case you’ve shared the disappearing message or video in a group, however, the read receipt for the same will be visible to the sender. Even blocked contacts who are part of the group will get to see the disappearing message.
It’s not as safe as Snapchat though
Unlike Snapchat, if someone takes a screenshot of the disappearing message, the sender doesn’t get a notification for the same, which sort of renders the whole premise moot. WhatsApp hasn’t added any extra layer of protection on those images and videos yet.
What do you think about this new WhatsApp feature and have you had a chance to try it out already?
News Credit: MSN News
