WhatsApp's 'View Once' Mode: Testing the Future of Voice Notes

By: Insha Hashmi

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Updated on: 20-Oct-2023

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This week, WhatsApp has released a number of changes meant to improve the user experience. The Meta-owned messaging platform has tested a 'view once' mode for voice notes, after the introduction of passkey connection for Android users and a new bottom tab interface. Currently in the beta testing stage for users of iOS and Android, this capability is already available for various kinds of media. It won't be long before a larger user base has access to this practical and private-focused tool, increasing the versatility and security of voice communications.

WhatsApp is rolling out a new privacy feature for its beta users, according to WABetaInfo, a feature tracker. The 'see once' option that is now accessible for photographs and videos is extended to voice messages with this innovation, which introduces the idea of self-destructing voice notes. WhatsApp is constantly coming up with new ways to give users more control over their privacy, and this new feature just serves to highlight how dedicated the company is to providing safe and flexible messaging alternatives.

WhatsApp is progressively pushing out the 'view once' mode feature for audio communications to a small group of beta users. This feature is accessible to Android users through the Google Play Store via the WhatsApp beta app, specifically with releases 2.23.21.15 and 2.23.22.4. With the update, WhatsApp beta 23.21.1.73 on the TestFlight app is compatible, improving the privacy of transient audio messages on both of the major platforms.

As previously indicated, a small group of beta testers can now use the voice note 'see once' mode; a wider release is planned for the near future. Encouraging privacy, this function makes sure that voice notes submitted with the 'view once' option activated cannot be saved or shared with other users. Screenshots from WABetaInfo show a "view once" icon in the voice message conversation, enabling users to submit private voice notes that can't be replayed, saved, or shared.

By adding a secret code function for locked talks, WhatsApp is improving privacy features by letting users make unique passwords for chat folders that are protected.

Additionally, WhatsApp began supporting passkeys for Android users this week. This feature allows users to safely connect back into their accounts using their device's PIN or biometric authentication. On Android phones, users can use a fingerprint scanner or face unlock to access their WhatsApp accounts while keeping their stored passkey.