WhatsApp self-destructing messages are coming soon, with a new name and settings

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Self-destructing messages for WhatsApp are on the way, and a newly released beta shows a few notable changes to the way they'll work.

WABetaInfo found that in version 2.19.348 of the WhatsApp beta for Android, the self-destructing messages feature has been renamed. Previously known as Disappearing Messages, it's now called Delete Messages. The latest beta also changes the timeframes that can be used to automatically delete messages.

In earlier beta releases, it was only possible to have messages automatically deleted after fives seconds or an hour. With the new name come new options. As things stand in Delete Messages, you will be able to have messages deleted after an hour, a day, a week, a month or a year.

WABetaInfo shared news of the changes, noting that Delete Messages also features support for dark mode.

It is impossible to tell when this feature will make its way to the release version of WhatsApp, but we'll keep you updated when it does.

Like many Android apps, there is a beta program for WhatsApp in the Google Play Store. Unfortunately, there are no spaces for new beta testers at the moment, but more could become available any time.

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Sofia Elizabella Wyciślik-Wilson
Sofia Elizabella Wyciślik-Wilson
Freelance writer

Sofia is a tech journalist who's been writing about software, hardware and the web for nearly 25 years – but still looks as youthful as ever! After years writing for magazines, her life moved online and remains fueled by technology, music and nature.

Having written for websites and magazines since 2000, producing a wide range of reviews, guides, tutorials, brochures, newsletters and more, she continues to write for diverse audiences, from computing newbies to advanced users and business clients. Always willing to try something new, she loves sharing new discoveries with others.

Sofia lives and breathes Windows, Android, iOS, macOS and just about anything with a power button, but her particular areas of interest include security, tweaking and privacy. Her other loves include walking, music, her two Malamutes and, of course, her wife and daughter.

You can find her on Twitter and Mastodon.