WhatsApp is beta testing the ability to send voice messages that can only be heard once by the intended recipient. WABetaInfo reports.
The feature, which is currently only available to a limited number of Android and iOS users running the beta version of the app, can reportedly be accessed by tapping a small “1” icon that appears to the right of the form. voice memo waveform when recording. “After you send the voice memo with View Once mode enabled, you will not be able to hear it, and the recipient will no longer be able to hear the voice memo after you discard it.” WABetaInfo reports.
The messaging service owned by Meta already has a similar service View once feature for photos and videos which launched in 2021, so it makes sense that it would expand it to voice messages given that its content can be equally sensitive. I am registered as a fan of voice messages, I think they are a good way to share a lot of news with someone in a more personal way without having to type a lot, thus adding a more private way of use. I think the feature is great.
As with all of these WhatsApp beta features, it’s impossible to say if, or even when, this might see a wider rollout. Reports previously suggested that WhatsApp was also planning to add ‘View Once’ functionality to text messages, but almost a year later, the feature is yet to arrive. (WhatsApp already offers a separate account disappearing messages feature which covers text messages). A Meta spokesman declined to comment.
