WhatsApp rolled out the “View Once” feature for photos and videos in August 2021, letting users send self-destructing pictures and videos. Now, WhatsApp has expanded that feature to voice messages.
The View Once for voice messages, which should’ve been called Hear Once, works like it does for photos and videos. An audio message you send to the recipient can neither be heard by the recipient again after it’s opened nor be saved on their phone. The sender also can’t listen to it after it’s sent.
The View Once audio message will also display a label reading “Opened” after the message is opened, provided the receiver has turned on read receipts.
How to send View Once voice messages on WhatsApp?
- Open an individual or group chat.
- Tap the microphone.
- Swipe up to lock the recording.
- Tap and hold record.
- Tap view once icon (when it turns green, you’re in view once mode).
- Tap send button.
WhatsApp says that for consistency with View Once photos and videos, View Once voice messages are also marked with the “one time” icon. They are also end-to-end encrypted by default.
View Once voice messages will begin rolling out globally over the coming days.
