WhatsApp Tests “Read-Once” Message Feature.

WhatsApp is testing a new privacy-focused feature in its iOS beta version that allows messages to automatically disappear once they are read by the recipient.

This new “After Reading” option expands on the platform’s existing “Disappearing Messages” feature, which previously allowed users to set messages to delete after fixed time periods such as 24 hours, 7 days, or 90 days.

With the new update, users will be able to choose a more immediate privacy option where messages are automatically deleted after being opened, providing stronger control over sensitive conversations.

The feature is designed to enhance user privacy and reduce the risk of message storage or unintended sharing. It is especially useful for sharing confidential or time-sensitive information.

In addition to this, WhatsApp is also introducing “Custom Timers,” allowing users to set personalized message deletion periods such as 1 hour, 6 hours, or 2 days, depending on their preference.

Currently, these features are available only to selected iOS beta testers. However, the company is expected to roll them out gradually to Android users and eventually to the wider public in future updates.

Meta Platforms continues to focus on improving privacy and security across its messaging ecosystem, with more advanced message control tools expected in upcoming releases.

WhatsApp Introduces Custom Lists Feature to Organize Important Messages

WhatsApp has introduced a useful new feature called “Custom Lists” to help users organize their chats more efficiently. Today, WhatsApp plays a major role in both personal and professional communication. From family conversations and office discussions to school groups and customer messages, users manage multiple types of chats in a single platform.

To make message management easier, WhatsApp now allows users to create customized chat categories through the new Custom Lists feature. Users can organize conversations into separate sections such as family, work, friends, clients, or business contacts. This feature helps users quickly access important chats without spending time endlessly scrolling through messages.

Users can activate this feature by opening the WhatsApp Settings menu and scrolling down to the “Lists” option. They can then create a new list and add selected chats to that category. Once completed, users can open the list to view only the conversations related to that specific section.

The new feature improves chat organization and helps users focus on important messages more effectively. It also allows users to separate personal and professional communication, reducing confusion and improving productivity.

Technology experts believe the Custom Lists feature will become highly popular among users who handle large numbers of daily conversations. The update reflects WhatsApp’s continued focus on improving user experience and communication management.

US Court Fines Meta $375M for Child Safety Violations,

A US court has ordered Meta to pay $375 million for harming children and exposing them to sexual exploitation on its platforms. The ruling comes after a six-week trial in New Mexico.

State officials accused Meta of failing to protect minors. The jury agreed that Meta prioritized profit over safety and violated sections of New Mexico’s Unfair Practices Act.

The court found that Meta misused children’s vulnerabilities and engaged in “unethical business practices.” The ruling marks the first time a US state has successfully sued Meta over child protection issues.

Meta, the parent company of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, faces multiple lawsuits regarding its platforms’ impact on youth mental health. The jury sided with the state’s arguments that Meta ignored safety concerns to increase profits.

During the trial, 40 witnesses testified, including whistleblowers. Lawyers reviewed hundreds of documents, reports, and emails.

Meta’s spokesperson rejected the ruling and announced plans to appeal. He stated, “We work hard to keep our users safe. Identifying and removing harmful content remains challenging, but we continue to improve our systems.”

New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez filed the lawsuit in 2023 against Meta and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Investigators created fake accounts of users under 14 to test platform safety. These accounts received sexual content and interacted with adults seeking such content, prompting multiple charges.

Torrez called the ruling a historic victory for children and families. He said, “Meta must now pay the price for placing profits above child safety. No tech company stands above the law.”

The trial’s second phase begins in May, where a judge will determine whether Meta must pay additional fines or implement further platform changes.

Meanwhile, a separate jury in California is examining Meta and YouTube over their impact on children. This case could influence thousands of similar lawsuits nationwide. Regulators are reviewing whether platforms intentionally designed features to engage young users.