WhatsApp introduces Disappearing Messages: How to enable

In a bid to challenge the Snapchat, Whatsapp is introducing disappearing posts. WhatsApp, which is owned by Facebbok told it would introduce a feature by which it two billion users will have the option of keeping their messages or automatically delete after seven days.

The feature is available for individual as well as group chats. However, in group chats, the group admins will be able to enable disappearing messages in group chats.

"Today, WhatsApp messages often live on our phones forever. While it's great to hold onto memories from friends and family, most of what we send doesn't need to be everlasting," a WhatsApp blog post said. "Our goal is to make conversations on WhatsApp feel as close to in-person as possible, which means they shouldn't have to stick around forever. That's why we're excited to introduce the option to use disappearing messages on WhatsApp."

Facebook had previously had an automatic delete option for its Messenger platform, following on the heels of Snapchat, which has amassed a strong following among young smartphone users.

WhatsApp chose a seven-day window "because we think it offers peace of mind that conversations aren't permanent while remaining practical so you don't forget what you were chatting about," the blog post said.

Once the Disappearing Messages feature is enabled, new messages sent in the individual or group chat will disappear after seven days.

All messages including photos and videos will also wipe out after seven days for both sender and receiver. However, Whatsapp doesn't restrict the option to take screenshots or just simply copy messages before they are automatically deleted.

How to switch on Disappearing Messages feature:

• Open the WhatsApp chat.
• Tap the contact’s name.
• Tap Disappearing messages.
• If prompted, tap CONTINUE.
• Select On.

How to switch off Disappearing Messages feature:

• Once disabled, messages sent in the chat will no longer disappear.
• Open the WhatsApp chat.
• Tap the contact’s name.
• Tap Disappearing messages.
• If prompted, tap CONTINUE.
• Select Off.

It is to be noted that the messages will be deleted after 7 days and there is no option to set the time frame for dissappearance.