How to change a WhatsApp message?

How to change a WhatsApp message - briefly?

Changing a WhatsApp message after it has been sent is not possible due to the app's design focusing on secure and reliable communication. If you need to correct or update your message, you will have to delete the original message and send a new one with the corrected information.

How to change a WhatsApp message - in detail?

Changing a sent WhatsApp message is not a straightforward task due to the app's design, which prioritizes the integrity and authenticity of messages. However, there are several methods to achieve this, depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Here’s a detailed guide on how to change a WhatsApp message:

Editing a Message Before Sending

If you realize that you made a mistake before hitting the send button, you can easily edit the message. Simply tap and hold the message until it is highlighted in blue, then make your changes. Unfortunately, this feature is not available for messages that have already been sent.

Deleting and Resending a Message

One of the simplest ways to change a WhatsApp message is by deleting the original message and sending a new one. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open WhatsApp and go to the chat where the message was sent.
2. Long press on the message you want to delete until a menu appears at the top of the screen.
3. Select the trash can icon (Delete for Everyone) if the message was sent less than 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 16 seconds ago. This will remove the message from both your device and the recipient’s device.
4. After deleting the message, type a new message with the corrected content and send it.

Using WhatsApp Web or Desktop App

WhatsApp Web and the desktop app offer more flexibility for editing messages. However, these methods are not officially supported by WhatsApp and may result in the loss of message history if not done carefully:

1. Open WhatsApp Web on your computer (web.whatsapp.com) or use the WhatsApp desktop app.
2. Log in to your account using the QR code provided.
3. Find the conversation containing the message you want to change.
4. Right-click on the message and select “Inspect” or press Ctrl + Shift + I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Option + I (Mac).
5. In the Developer Tools panel, locate the message text within the HTML code.
6. Edit the message text directly in the code.
7. Press Enter to save your changes.

Important Notes:

• Editing messages via WhatsApp Web or desktop app is not an officially supported feature and can lead to data loss if done incorrectly.
• Deleting messages using the “Delete for Everyone” option is only available within a specific time frame (1 hour, 8 minutes, and 16 seconds after sending).
• Backing up your chats regularly is recommended to avoid losing important conversations.

By following these methods, you can effectively change a WhatsApp message even after it has been sent. Always remember that while editing messages is possible, maintaining the authenticity of communications is crucial for building trust and reliability in your conversations.