WhatsApp has begun testing a “view once” feature for text messages on iOS. This functionality allows users to send messages that can only be viewed a single time by the recipient before disappearing.
To use the feature, users must long-tap the Send button, which will display the option to “Send as view once.” Once selected, the message will function as intended, disappearing after the recipient views it.
This testing follows an earlier rollout of the feature on Android earlier this month. The view once option has already been implemented for photos, videos, and voice messages, and WhatsApp is now expanding it to include text messages.
The view once feature will be applicable in both one-on-one and group chats, although it will not be available in channels. Currently, the feature is undergoing internal testing and is not part of a public beta.
This new functionality differs from a feature previously revealed in May, which allows messages to expire after a set time. The view once feature solely permits a message to be viewed once before it is removed.
Implementing this feature may increase user feelings of safety, although it raises concerns about data harvesting practices.
