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WhatsApp Tests ‘After Reading’ Auto-Delete in Android Beta

The trial gives users tighter control over how long a message stays visible to reduce lingering sensitive info.

Overview

  • WABetaInfo reported Tuesday that Android beta version 2.26.12.2 adds an option to delete messages after they are read.
  • Messages using this setting are removed on the recipient’s side 15 minutes after they are opened, and they expire after 24 hours if never opened.
  • The same message disappears from the sender’s chat 15 minutes after it is sent, creating different timers on each side of the thread.
  • The deletion works even when read receipts are off, so removal does not depend on blue-check read confirmations.
  • The feature is still in development with no announced rollout and sits alongside the app’s existing 24-hour, seven-day and 90-day timers.