WhatsApp Tests Self-Deleting Messages on iPhone

WhatsApp is testing a new privacy-focused feature for iPhone users that allows messages to automatically disappear shortly after they are read.

The feature, currently being rolled out to select beta testers on iOS, expands WhatsApp’s existing disappearing messages system by introducing a new “After Reading” option designed to give users tighter control over private conversations.

According to reports from WABetaInfo, users will be able to choose how long messages remain visible after they are opened, with options including five minutes, one hour, or 12 hours.

Under the new system, a timer begins once the recipient reads the message, after which the content is automatically deleted from the chat.

If a message is never opened, WhatsApp will reportedly remove it automatically after 24 hours.

The platform already allows users to activate disappearing messages with broader deletion windows of 24 hours, seven days, or 90 days, either for specific conversations or across all chats.

Meta-owned WhatsApp said the new feature is entirely optional and will not be enabled by default, meaning users can continue using the app normally unless they manually activate the setting.

The company is currently testing the feature with a limited number of iOS beta users, while some testers may also gain access through the App Store version before a wider global rollout in the coming weeks.

The update reflects growing demand for stronger privacy controls as messaging platforms increasingly compete on secure communication and temporary content features.