WHATSAPP is preparing to roll out two new disappearing message timers for its Android beta app, according to tech site wabetainfo.com. The update will introduce 1-hour and 12-hour expiry options, adding to the existing choices of 24 hours, 7 days and 90 days.
The new feature is still under development and has not yet been made available to beta testers or the general public.
One-hour timer raises concerns
The 1-hour setting is designed for highly sensitive exchanges, where messages need to vanish quickly. However, the countdown starts the moment a message is delivered rather than when it is opened. This means a message could disappear before a recipient even reads it, potentially disrupting conversations.
WhatsApp plans to include a warning for users whenever they select the 1-hour option to make them aware of this limitation.
Twelve-hour option balances privacy and convenience
The 12-hour timer is intended to provide a middle ground for users who want messages to remain available for part of a day without being stored indefinitely. This makes it useful for scenarios such as event planning or short-term coordination, where details are only relevant for a limited time.
Competitive edge against rivals
By expanding its disappearing message feature set, WhatsApp is seeking to enhance user flexibility and privacy controls. Analysts suggest this move could also help the platform retain users who might otherwise migrate to competitors like Telegram, which already offer broader privacy features.
