WhatsApp has launched “disappearing voice messages,” a new feature that will allow users to send an audio that can only be heard once before self-destructing, similar to the “View Once” option for photos and videos introduced in 2021.
The company notes in a blog post that this feature could provide added security to conversations where information isn’t meant to be preserved in digital format, such as when planning a surprise or sharing confidential information with a friend or family member (like a credit card number).
These voice messages will be clearly marked with a “one-time” icon so the recipient knows they can only listen to the message once before it disappears. This way, they won’t attempt to play it in a noisy environment or should be prepared to take notes if there’s crucial information they need to remember from the message. WhatsApp asserts that these audios are protected with default end-to-end encryption, similar to the “View Once” photos and videos.
This new feature adds to the array of security and privacy measures WhatsApp has been implementing over the years. These include end-to-end encryption in messages, preventing third parties from intercepting conversations; chat locking, ensuring private conversations stay that way without being read by others, and the introduction of passkeys, enabling secure WhatsApp logins without the need for a password.
WhatsApp’s new “View Once” feature for voice messages will roll out globally in the coming days, as reported by the company. Even if you don’t see it right away, you won’t have to wait long to try it out.
