How to delete SMS for everyone in WhatsApp - briefly?
To delete an SMS for everyone in WhatsApp, use the "Delete for everyone" feature within seven minutes of sending the message. Simply long-press the message and select "Delete for everyone" from the menu.
How to delete SMS for everyone in WhatsApp - in detail?
Deleting a message sent via WhatsApp can be crucial for maintaining privacy or correcting mistakes. The platform offers an option to "Delete for Everyone," which allows users to remove messages from both their own and the recipient's devices. However, this feature comes with specific conditions and limitations. Here is a detailed guide on how to use it effectively:
Understanding the Time Limit
The “Delete for Everyone” feature only works within a specific time frame. For Android users, the message can be deleted within 7 minutes of sending, while iOS users have up to 1 hour and 8 minutes. After this period, the message will remain on the recipient's device even if you delete it from your own.
Steps to Delete a Message for Everyone
- Open WhatsApp: Launch the application on your smartphone.
- Navigate to the Chat: Find and open the chat or group where you sent the message you want to delete.
- Locate the Message: Scroll through the conversation to find the specific message.
- Select the Message: Long-press on the message until a menu appears at the top of your screen.
- Choose “Delete” Option: Tap on the trash can icon or the “Delete” option in the menu.
- Confirm Deletion for Everyone: A pop-up will appear asking if you want to delete the message for everyone or just for yourself. Choose “Delete for Everyone.”
Important Considerations
- Recipient Notification: The recipient will see a notification indicating that a message was deleted. They won't be able to see the content of the deleted message, but they will know one was removed.
- Group Chats: In group chats, all participants will receive a notification about the deletion.
- Media Messages: If you delete a media file (image, video, or voice note), it will still be available on the recipient's device if they have downloaded it to their gallery. The delete function only removes the message from the chat thread itself.
Additional Tips
- Regular Backups: Regularly back up your WhatsApp data to avoid accidentally deleting important messages.
- Double-Check Before Sending: Take a moment to review messages before sending them to minimize the need for deletion later.
By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively use the “Delete for Everyone” feature in WhatsApp to maintain your privacy and correct any mistakes made during communication.