WhatsApp is now rolling out its View Once feature to text messages for users in the messaging app’s beta programme.
According to a report from the leaker website WABetaInfo, the feature was spotted in the 2.26.45.6 update on Android devices from the Google Play Store, with some beta testers being able to send text messages that disappear after being viewed by a recipient.
In tests by StarLifestyle, the feature does not appear to be available to all beta users as of publication. The beta version tested was 2.26.45.10, which is newer than the version mentioned in the WABetaInfo report, but does not have the ability to send View Once text messages.
Previously, it was only available for photos, videos, and voice notes sent in the app. All content sent in a View Once message will be protected from screenshots and screen recordings by WhatsApp.
The View Once text message also cannot be copied, forwarded, or saved by a recipient. WABetaInfo says this lets users send things like passwords or one-time codes without them remaining in the chat history.
Once available, users can access the feature by long-pressing the green send button after typing out a message and selecting the View Once option from the menu that appears.
Those keen can enrol in the beta programme by navigating to the WhatsApp page on the Google Play Store and requesting to join the testing programme. It is currently unclear if and when the iOS version of the messaging app will receive the feature.
