WhatsApp has just introduced a new feature called View Once for voice messages, which allows users to send voice messages that disappear once they have been listened to. In a blog post, WhatsApp announced the new feature, saying that it is similar to the View Once feature that was introduced for photos and videos in 2021.
The disappearing voice notes feature is designed to add an extra layer of privacy to your messages. Hence, you no longer have to be afraid that your voice note will be forwarded to somebody else. You can simply turn this feature on and send that voice note without any worries.
In its blog post announcing the feature, WhatsApp said that there are several situations where you might want to use a disappearing voice message. For example, you might want to use it to share sensitive details with a friend, or when you're planning a surprise and don't want anyone else to hear your message.
"For reading out your credit card details to a friend, or when you’re planning a surprise, you can now also share sensitive information over voice message with added peace of mind. For consistency with View Once photos and videos, View Once voice messages are clearly marked with the “one-time” icon and can only be played one time," the company noted.
To send a disappearing voice message, you need to simply record your message as usual and then tap the new one-time icon before sending. The recipient will only be able to listen to the message once, and it will then disappear from their chat history.
As with all your personal messages on WhatsApp, disappearing voice messages are protected with end-to-end encryption by default. This means that only the sender and the recipient can see or hear the message, and not even WhatsApp can access it.
WhatsApp also said that the View Once feature for voice messages is rolling out globally over the coming days. You can learn more about how it works by visiting the WhatsApp Help Center.
The introduction of disappearing voice messages is the latest in a series of privacy-focused features that WhatsApp has introduced in recent years. In addition to View Once photos and videos, WhatsApp also offers end-to-end encryption for all messages and calls, as well as the ability to delete messages for everyone in a chat. A couple of days back, WhatsApp also rolled out the Secret Code feature for all users. The feature lets users create a unique password with words or emojis to secure their chats.
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