How to delete sent WhatsApp messages for the recipient - briefly?
To delete sent WhatsApp messages for the recipient, you can use the "Delete for Everyone" feature within one hour of sending the message. This option allows you to remove the message from both your and the recipient's chat history.
How to delete sent WhatsApp messages for the recipient - in detail?
Deleting sent WhatsApp messages can be a useful feature when you need to correct or retract information that has already been shared. However, it's important to understand the limitations and nuances of this functionality.
Firstly, let's clarify how WhatsApp handles message deletion. When you delete a message from your end, it is removed from your chat history as well as the recipient's chat history. However, if the recipient has notifications enabled for new messages, they may still see a preview of the deleted message in their notification bar or on their home screen.
To delete a sent WhatsApp message, follow these steps:
- Open WhatsApp: Launch the WhatsApp application on your device.
- Navigate to the Chat: Go to the chat where you sent the message you want to delete.
- Select the Message: Long press on the message you wish to delete until it is selected. You can also select multiple messages by tapping on them while holding down.
- Delete for Everyone: After selecting the message(s), tap on the "delete" icon at the top of your screen (it looks like a trash can or a recycling symbol). From the options that appear, choose "Delete for Everyone."
- Confirmation: WhatsApp will ask you to confirm that you want to delete the message(s) for everyone in the chat. Tap "Delete" to proceed.
It's crucial to note that you only have 1 hour, 8 minutes, and 16 seconds (from the time of sending) to delete a message using the "Delete for Everyone" feature. After this window has passed, you will only be able to delete the message from your own chat history using the "Delete for Me" option, but it will remain visible in the recipient's chat.
Additionally, WhatsApp provides no guarantee that the message will be successfully deleted from the recipient's device if they have an older version of the app or if their phone is offline at the time of deletion. It's always a good idea to double-check with the recipient if the message has been successfully removed from their chat history.
In summary, while WhatsApp offers a convenient way to delete sent messages for all participants in a chat, there are certain constraints and conditions that must be met for this feature to work effectively. Always ensure you act promptly and confirm the deletion with the recipient if necessary.