How to delete a message "for everyone" on WhatsApp?

How to delete a message for everyone on WhatsApp - briefly?

To delete a message for everyone on WhatsApp, open the chat containing the message you want to delete, then tap and hold the message until it is selected. Next, tap the 'Delete' icon at the top of the screen and select 'Delete for Everyone'.

How to delete a message for everyone on WhatsApp - in detail?

Deleting a message for everyone on WhatsApp is a feature that allows users to remove sent messages from both their own and the recipient's devices. This can be particularly useful if you have sent a message in error or wish to correct information. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve this:

  1. Identify the Message: Open WhatsApp and navigate to the chat where you sent the message you want to delete.
  2. Select the Message: Long-press on the message until it is highlighted. This will bring up options at the top of your screen.
  3. Access Deletion Options: Tap on the trash can icon (?) that appears in the action bar. If you don’t see this option, make sure you have selected the correct message.
  4. Choose 'Delete for Everyone': A prompt will appear asking if you want to delete the message for everyone or just for yourself. Select ‘Delete for Everyone’.
  5. Confirm Deletion: WhatsApp will confirm that the message has been deleted and notify all recipients that a message was removed. This process is irreversible, so ensure you really want to delete the message before proceeding.
  6. Check Deletion Status: If the deletion was successful, you will see a note in the chat stating “You deleted this message” in place of the original message. Recipients will also see this notice instead of the content of the message.

Important Considerations:

  • Time Limit: You have 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 16 seconds from the time you sent the message to delete it for everyone. After this period, the option to delete messages for everyone will no longer be available.
  • Recipient Notification: Recipients will be notified that a message was deleted. They won’t see the content of the message but will know that something was removed.
  • Device Compatibility: The ‘Delete for Everyone’ feature works across different platforms, including Android, iOS, and WhatsApp Web. However, recipients must have the latest version of WhatsApp installed to receive the deletion notification correctly.
  • Group Chats: Deleting a message in a group chat will remove it from everyone's devices, but all participants in the group will be notified that a message was deleted.

By following these steps, you can effectively manage your communication on WhatsApp and ensure that any mistakes or incorrect information are promptly corrected.