How to Set WhatsApp Disappearing Messages to 24 Hours by Default (Updated), by How Tap on YouTube. 1 min 18 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 18 s
- Time to do it
- 2 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Open WhatsApp on your phone and make sure you are on the main Chats screen.
Tap the three dots menu in the top right corner. On iPhone, tap Settings at the bottom instead.
Tap Settings in the menu.
Tap Storage and data. On newer versions this may be called Privacy, so look there if you cannot find it.
Tap Turn on disappearing messages.
Tap Default message timer.
Choose 24 hours from the list. The timer now applies to new chats you start or accept.
Tips and common mistakes
The default timer only affects new chats, so set the timer manually in existing chats.
Messages already sent are not deleted when you turn the timer on.
Both people in a chat can see the timer, and either one can change it.
Turn on disappearing messages in group chats only if everyone agrees to it.
Questions
Does the 24 hour default apply to my old chats?
No. The default timer applies to new chats you start or accept after you set it. You need to change the timer in each existing chat yourself.
Can the other person turn off disappearing messages?
Yes. In a one to one chat either person can change or turn off the timer. In group chats an admin controls it.
Where is the setting if I cannot find Storage and data?
On newer WhatsApp versions the option sits under Settings then Privacy. Look for Default message timer there.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
