WhatsApp to debut disappearing messages this month

WhatsApp will soon offer the option to send disappearing messages. But its option will delete messages and files only after seven days. A spokesperson from the Facebook-owned messaging app reasoned, "We're starting with 7 days 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 feature will be available for individual and group chats. Admins for the group chats can enable the feature for the group. Disappearing messages also include pictures and videos shared, but as The Verge points out, people can take screenshots of the messages or copy them before they get erased.

The feature has to be enabled on a per group and contact basis. And when it fully rolls out, the option will be seen in each friend's contact section. It won't affect any of your older conversations. Instead, it will erase the new ones when the feature is enabled. All users can expect the feature to be available on their apps.