How can I delete all read messages in WhatsApp?

How can I delete all read messages in WhatsApp - briefly?

To delete all read messages in WhatsApp, you currently cannot select and delete multiple messages at once through the app itself. However, you can use third-party software or manually delete each message individually by opening the chat, selecting the message, and choosing the 'Delete' option.

How can I delete all read messages in WhatsApp - in detail?

Deleting all read messages in WhatsApp can be a daunting task, as the app does not provide a built-in feature for mass deletion of conversations. However, there are several methods you can employ to achieve this goal. It is important to note that these methods may vary depending on your device and operating system.

Method 1: Manual Deletion

The most straightforward method is manual deletion, which involves going through each conversation and deleting the messages individually. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device.
  2. Select a Chat: Tap on the chat or contact whose messages you want to delete.
  3. Delete Messages: Once inside the conversation, press and hold on a message until it is selected. You can then select additional messages by tapping on them.
  4. Tap the Trash Icon: After selecting all the messages you wish to delete, tap the trash icon at the top of the screen.
  5. Confirm Deletion: A confirmation dialog will appear. Tap "Delete for Me" or "Delete for Everyone" depending on your preference.
  6. Repeat Process: You will need to repeat this process for each chat or contact whose messages you want to delete.

Method 2: Backup and Restore

This method involves backing up your chats, deleting the WhatsApp app, and then restoring from a backup that does not include the read messages. This is a more drastic approach but can be effective if you need to start fresh.

  1. Backup Your Chats: Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup. Tap "Back Up" to create a backup of your chats.
  2. Uninstall WhatsApp: After the backup is complete, uninstall WhatsApp from your device.
  3. Reinstall WhatsApp: Download and install WhatsApp from your app store.
  4. Restore from Backup: During the setup process, you will be prompted to restore your chats from a backup. Choose the backup file that does not include the read messages you want to delete.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Applications

There are third-party applications available that claim to help manage and delete WhatsApp messages in bulk. However, it is essential to exercise caution when using such apps, as they may not be secure or reliable. Always ensure that you download and use apps from trusted sources.

Important Considerations

  • Data Loss: Deleting messages permanently removes them from your device. Ensure you really want to delete the messages before proceeding.
  • Backup: Regularly back up your WhatsApp chats to avoid accidental data loss.
  • Privacy: Be mindful of the privacy implications when using third-party applications. Only use trusted and secure methods for deleting messages.

By following these detailed steps, you can effectively delete all read messages in WhatsApp, allowing you to manage your conversations more efficiently.