WhatsApp adds self‑destructing text messages and revamps status screen

WhatsApp is testing a "View Once" mode for text messages. When enabled, a message disappears after the recipient reads it and cannot be copied, forwarded or screenshotted. The feature is being built for one‑to‑one and group chats and is not yet available for broadcast lists.

At the same time, the app is redesigning the status‑text interface on Android. The new layout consolidates editing, preview, expiry‑time selection (ranging from one hour to one month) and privacy controls onto a single screen, making it easier to set who can see a status. The changes are currently rolling out to beta testers and will be expanded in the coming weeks.