Whatsapp has integrated the ephemeral visuals function which made Snapchat so successful. Here’s how to implement it.
Since its launch in September 2011, the social network SnapchatSnapchat has highlighted the ephemeral sending function. Sent photos or videos disappear after being viewed.
A weakness of social networks
This concept of an ephemeral message has attracted many users. In fact, the indiscretion specific to social networkssocial networks is well known. Some employees suffered reprimands following the publication of photos on Facebook and this could even be the pretext for dismissals. Additionally, some people may want to send personal photos to another person but not want them to be seen by unrelated individuals.
The concept has therefore attracted many users, particularly among the young population. By the end of 2013, Snapchat was able to claim 34.8 million subscribers. In 2024, the figure is 750 million active users.
A service adopted by major platforms
In reality, the craze seemed such that Instagram, the number 1 social network in terms of photos, had to integrate this function into its offer, starting in the fall of 20165, with InstagramInstagram Stories (which disappeared after 24 hours). Likewise, FacebookFacebook and TikTokTikTok have integrated Stories based on the same principle.
On Instagram, the Instagram Direct function goes further: photos or videos disappear after a single viewing.
Whatsapp joins the lot
We had to wait until August 2021 for Whatsapp to integrate this function. It has therefore been present for years but most users are unaware of it. Here’s how to implement it.
Enabling ephemeral photos/video
Under WhatsappWhatsapp, after selecting your recipient, click + then choose a photo or video. Then click on the 1 located to the right of “Add a caption”. You will then see this message appear: “Single view is activated for this photo”.
Once sent, the photo disappears from your message on Whatsapp, it is replaced by the mention “Photo”. And once the recipient has opened it, this notice changes to “Open”.
What about the recipient’s side? He can view the photo. However, as soon as he leaves the viewing he can no longer make it appear again.
One last point: nothing prevents the recipient from activating the Screen Capture function of their smartphone to keep a copy of the snapshot sent. Know that if he does, you will be informed. However, for security reasons, only send confidential photos or videos to people whose discretion you are absolutely sure of.
