How long does the history last in WhatsApp - briefly?
The duration for which messages and media are retained on WhatsApp varies depending on the type of content and user settings. For regular messages, WhatsApp stores them until they are manually deleted by the user.
How long does the history last in WhatsApp - in detail?
The duration for which message history is retained on WhatsApp varies depending on several factors, including the type of message and the user's settings. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
For regular messages, WhatsApp does not impose an expiration date. This means that text messages, photos, videos, and voice messages can be stored indefinitely within your chat history. However, it is important to note that these messages are only accessible on the device where they were originally received or sent. If you switch devices or change phone numbers, your message history will not transfer automatically.
WhatsApp also offers a feature called "Disappearing Messages" which allows users to set a timer for how long messages and media in a chat will be visible before they disappear. This feature can be enabled for individual chats and group chats. The available timers are 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days. Once the timer expires, the messages will automatically delete from both the sender's and recipient's devices.
In addition to user-controlled settings, WhatsApp also has its own policies regarding message retention. For example, if a message is not delivered within 30 days of being sent, it will be automatically deleted from the server. This policy ensures that undelivered messages do not clutter the system indefinitely.
Furthermore, WhatsApp provides an option for users to export their chat history. This feature allows you to save your message history as a text file on your device or cloud storage service. Exporting your chat history can be useful if you want to keep a record of your conversations independently of the WhatsApp app itself.
In summary, while regular messages on WhatsApp do not have an expiration date and can be stored indefinitely, users have the ability to control the retention period through features like "Disappearing Messages." Additionally, undelivered messages are automatically deleted after 30 days, and chat history can be exported for long-term storage.