WABetaInfo has shared details of WhatsApp self-destruct photos for the app’s iOS and Android versions. In November 2020, the leaker discovered that the company was working on the new Snapchat-like self-destruct photos to feature in the app’s FAQ page, under ‘about disappearing messages’.
Facebook which owns WhatsApp and Instagram, has also introduced disappearing messages on Instagram. In the chat interface, users need to swipe left to enter vanish mode and all conversation in the UI automatically disappears. And now it appears that the social media giant wants to expand the feature to its audio and video messaging app.
WhatsApp self-destruct photos inspired by Instagram Stories
The new self-destruct feature is designed to allow users to share photos with others which would disappear automatically after once they leave the chat. According to WABetaInfo, the app will offer a new Instagram Stories-like option in the chat interface, when selected, will allow users to send photos that they don’t want the receiver to save on their device.
However, unlike Snapchat which notifies the sender when a receiver takes a screenshot of their shared image or chat, the app will not offer screenshot detection.
WhatsApp is working on self-destructing photos in a future update for iOS and Android. • Self-destructing photos cannot be exported from WhatsApp. • WhatsApp didn’t implement a screenshot detection for self-destructing photos yet.
The company’s FAQ page describes the disappearing media as,
By default, media you receive in WhatsApp will be automatically downloaded to your photos. If disappearing messages are turned on, media sent in the chat will disappear, but will be saved on the phone if auto-download is on. You can turn auto-download off in WhatsApp Settings > Storage and Data.
Currently, the app is under public scrutiny over its upcoming privacy update which will allow the app to share users’ data with Facebook. The public outcry has been so strong against the new update, the company postponed its launch from February to May.
WhatsApp is working on self-destructing photos in a future update for iOS and Android.
• Self-destructing photos cannot be exported from WhatsApp.
• WhatsApp didn't implement a screenshot detection for self-destructing photos yet.Same concept from Instagram Direct. ⏱ pic.twitter.com/LLsezVL2Hj
— WABetaInfo (@WABetaInfo) March 3, 2021
