WhatsApp, a messaging app owned by Meta, has reintroduced the “View Once” feature for photos and videos in its desktop applications. This feature enhances user privacy by allowing users on Windows and macOS to send media files that can only be viewed once by the recipient, marking a significant step in WhatsApp’s commitment to secure communication.
Initially, the “View Once” feature was removed from the web version of WhatsApp last year due to privacy concerns. However, following user feedback and a growing demand for more secure messaging options, WhatsApp has now brought this feature back to its desktop apps. This reintegration highlights WhatsApp’s commitment to adapting to user needs and enhancing the security of digital communications.
The “View Once” feature operates by allowing users to send photos and videos that disappear after a single view. This is particularly beneficial for sharing sensitive or confidential information, as it ensures the media is only temporarily accessible and cannot be permanently stored on the recipient’s device. To use this feature, users simply need to select the media file they wish to send and then tap on the icon marked with “1” inside a dotted circle before sending it. This straightforward process makes it easy for users to share temporary media without compromising on security.
In terms of privacy measures, WhatsApp has implemented stringent restrictions for “View Once” media. These files cannot be downloaded, forwarded, saved, or even screenshotted. The sender can only know if the recipient has viewed the media if read receipts are enabled. Moreover, if the recipient does not open the photo or video within 14 days, the media will automatically expire and disappear from the conversation. This approach ensures that the media remains strictly temporary and private.
An important aspect of this feature is that “View Once” media is not included in backups and cannot be restored. This means that once the media is viewed, it is completely inaccessible and cannot be retrieved. Additionally, the sender has no way of knowing whether the recipient has taken a screenshot of the media, further emphasizing the temporary and private nature of this feature.
Overall, the reintroduction of the “View Once” feature on WhatsApp’s desktop applications is a testament to the app’s ongoing efforts to provide secure and private communication tools to its users. By allowing users to share temporary, unsaveable media, WhatsApp is addressing the growing concerns around digital privacy and security in today’s interconnected world. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, features like “View Once” are crucial in ensuring that users can communicate freely without compromising their personal information.
