How to delete messages for the other person on WhatsApp on iPhone - briefly?
Deleting messages for another person on WhatsApp using an iPhone is not possible due to the app's privacy policy. However, you can delete messages from your own device, which will remove them from both yours and the recipient's chat history.
How to delete messages for the other person on WhatsApp on iPhone - in detail?
Deleting messages for another person on WhatsApp using an iPhone can be a bit tricky, as the standard app functionality does not allow users to directly delete messages from someone else's device. However, there are a few methods that can help achieve this goal, albeit with some limitations and potential risks. Here’s how you can approach it:
Method 1: Deleting Messages from Your Device
While you cannot delete messages directly from another person's phone, deleting them from your own device will remove the message from both parties' chat histories. This is a simple and straightforward way to ensure that the message is no longer visible on either end. Here’s how:
- Open WhatsApp on your iPhone.
- Navigate to the chat where you want to delete the message.
- Tap and hold the message you wish to delete until a menu appears.
- Select Delete from the options.
- You will be prompted with two choices: Delete for Me or Delete for Everyone. Choose Delete for Everyone.
Method 2: Using the "Revoke" Feature (for Recent Messages)
WhatsApp offers a feature that allows you to delete messages for everyone within a specific time frame. This method is useful if you need to remove recently sent messages:
- Open WhatsApp on your iPhone.
- Go to the chat where the message was sent.
- Tap and hold the message until the options menu appears.
- Select Delete.
- Choose Delete for Everyone. Note that this option is only available for messages sent within the last 7 minutes (4,096 seconds).
Method 3: Blocking the Contact
If you need to ensure that no further communication occurs and want to delete all chat history with a specific contact, you can block them. This action will remove their messages from your device:
- Open WhatsApp on your iPhone.
- Go to the chat with the person you want to block.
- Tap on the contact name at the top of the chat.
- Scroll down and tap Block Contact.
- Confirm the action when prompted.
Important Considerations
- Time Limit: The "Delete for Everyone" feature is only available within 7 minutes of sending the message. After this time, you can only delete messages from your own device.
- Backup and Restore: If the recipient has backups enabled, deleted messages might still be present in their backups.
- Legal Implications: Deleting messages might have legal implications depending on the context and jurisdiction. Ensure you are compliant with relevant laws and regulations.
Conclusion
While WhatsApp does not provide a direct method to delete messages from another person's device, using the "Delete for Everyone" feature or blocking the contact can help manage your chat history effectively. Always be aware of the time limits and legal considerations when deciding to delete messages.