WhatsApp is introducing a new “view once” mode for “voice notes,” which allows users to send voice messages that can only be listened to once by the intended recipient. This feature, currently in the testing phase, is available to Android and iOS users running the beta version of the app. Users can access this feature by tapping the “1” icon that appears to the right of the voice note waveform while recording.
Once a voice note is sent with the “view once” mode enabled, it cannot be listened to again, and the recipient also loses the ability to access it after dismissing the message. This feature provides users with greater control and privacy when sharing voice notes, as these voice messages cannot be exported, forwarded, or shared with others. Additionally, recipients will not be able to save or record the voice notes, enhancing content control and safeguarding user privacy.
WhatsApp has already introduced a similar “View Once” feature for photos and videos in 2021, allowing users to send media that can only be viewed once by the recipient.
In addition to this new feature, WhatsApp is set to offer support for a password-less passkey feature to all Android users. This move aims to eliminate the need for insecure and often annoying two-factor SMS authentication. Users will be able to log in securely with passkeys, with access granted through methods like facial recognition, fingerprint, or a PIN, enhancing account security.
WhatsApp continues to innovate and enhance its features to improve user privacy and the overall messaging experience.
WhatsApp is actively testing the “view once” mode for voice notes, and more details will be made available upon its official release. It’s part of a series of new features and improvements introduced by the Meta-owned messaging platform. These enhancements reflect WhatsApp’s commitment to providing a secure and user-friendly messaging service.
The “view once” mode for voice notes is currently available to users participating in the beta testing program for Android and iOS. As with any feature in testing, there may be adjustments and refinements before its full-scale release to all users.
WhatsApp is working to offer enhanced control and privacy for users sharing voice messages, ensuring that voice notes remain within the intended conversation and are not shared or stored without permission.
WhatsApp is actively working to provide a secure and convenient messaging experience for users, focusing on features that enhance user privacy and control over their communication. The “view once” mode for voice notes is a significant addition to the platform’s existing set of features.
WhatsApp has not disclosed a specific timeline for when this feature will be available to all users, but it is actively being tested in the beta version of the app for both Android and iOS platforms. Users in the beta program can access and experience this feature, and WhatsApp will continue to refine it based on user feedback and testing results before a wider rollout.
