WhatsApp Begins Testing Disappearing Messages Feature On Android

WhatsApp has introduced much-needed privacy-first features for the messenger app with disappearing messages and "View In one case" media. The Facebook-owned messenger app is testing out disappearing messages with 90 days limit with WhatsApp Beta Version 2.21.17.xvi.

New WhatsApp beta version two.21.17.sixteen nonetheless with security concerns

WhatsApp is testing a new 90 day limit for disappearing messages with WhatsApp Beta Version 2.21.17.16 for Android. Tested and reported past WABetaInfo . The beta version likewise includes a 24-60 minutes time limit. Previously spotted in beta version 2.21.ix.6 merely not released to the public.

Privacy advocators take called out WhatsApp to add privacy features for conversations. And the company delivered with 7 Days disappearing letters back in late 2020. With what the latest beta reveals, a 3-month auto-delete flow does non seem to marshal with WhatsApp's claims of making conversations close to in person. Sensitive messages gear up to expire in 90 days may exist compromised, left unaccounted for, or saved via screenshots.

In i-to-one conversations, either person can fix disappearing messages that volition expire in 90 days regardless if viewed or not. For group conversations, time limits can exist set up by grouping admins.

In the current version, alongside disappearing messages, senders can likewise send "View Once" images, files, videos, and media. Just, disappearing media can exist compromised with screen recording and screenshots as they are non time-sensitive. View Once media only expires when media is airtight.

It should be noted that conversations and "View In one case" media are protected by cease-to-end encryption.

How will it compare with the competition?

If the beta message disappearing limits are available to the public, they however autumn backside the contest. Betoken, an open-source messaging app, lets users set custom fourth dimension limits for disappearing letters. Telegram takes private conversations to the next level with "Hugger-mugger Chats." When users opt for cloak-and-dagger conversation, messages tin can exist set to expire and are highly secured with encryption.

Facebook has faced a lot of public and regulatory scrutiny over its privacy policies. With at least offer new privacy features with disappearing messages and "View In one case" media, WhatsApp nonetheless makes a compelling platform as a private messaging app.

If speculated, both of the new expiration limits should roll out with the side by side WhatsApp update for Android users worldwide.

Messaging apps today should develop user's trust with proper security measures and features. Messaging apps take been targets of information breaches, and offering privacy features exercise assistance in controlling user information.