WhatsApp is starting to roll out a new disappearing messages option. It will let WhatsApp users automatically delete messages after seven days. It will work across individual and group chats, and only on new messages.

A new option to wipe chat messages after seven days
WhatsApp is introducing a new disappearing messages option this month. The feature will allow WhatsApp users to enable disappearing messages on chat conversations between friends, to automatically delete messages after seven days. Anyone can enable the option in individual chats, and group admins will be able to enable disappearing messages in group chats.
Were starting with 7 days because we think it offers peace of mind that conversations arent permanent, while remaining practical so you dont forget what you were chatting about, says a WhatsApp spokesperson. The shopping list or store address you received a few days ago will be there while you need it, and then disappear after you dont.
Photos and videos will also be deleted with disappearing messages
Disappearing messages will also wipe out photos and videos after seven days, and while messages will disappear for both parties its still possible to take screenshots or just simply copy messages before theyre automatically deleted.
Youll need to enable disappearing messages on a per group or contact basis. Once the feature has rolled out fully, it will be available as a new option in the contact section of each friend in WhatsApp. The setting wont wipe out older messages, and only affects new messages once its enabled by either party. WhatsApp says it will start rolling out disappearing messages to all users this month.