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How to Delete WhatsApp Messages for Everyone

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How to Delete WhatsApp Messages for Everyone

WhatsApp has a feature that allows users to delete messages not only from their own device but also from the recipient's device. This feature comes in handy when you send a message by mistake, you realize you've made a typo, or you want to retract something you said. In this tutorial, we will guide you step by step on how to delete WhatsApp messages for everyone.

Step 1: Open WhatsApp

Launch the WhatsApp application on your mobile device.

Step 2: Select the Conversation

Choose the conversation containing the message you want to delete by tapping on it. This will open the chat window for that specific contact or group.

Step 3: Locate the Message

Scroll through the chat until you find the message you wish to delete. Alternatively, you can use the search function within the chat to locate the message more quickly.

Step 4: Delete the Message

Option 1: Delete a Recent Message

  • Press and hold the message you want to delete. This will highlight the message and display a menu at the top of the screen.
  • Tap the trash bin icon that appears in the menu.
  • Select "Delete for Everyone" from the options that appear.
  • Confirm your action by tapping "Delete" on the confirmation prompt.

Option 2: Delete Multiple Messages

  • Press and hold the first message you want to delete.
  • Tap other messages to select them. The selected messages will be highlighted.
  • Once you have selected all the messages you want to delete, tap the trash bin icon at the top of the screen.
  • Choose "Delete for Everyone" from the options that appear.
  • Confirm your action by tapping "Delete" on the confirmation prompt.

Step 5: Verify the Deletion

After deleting the message(s), you will see a message at the top of the chat window that says, "You deleted this message." Additionally, the recipients of the message(s) will see a note stating, "This message was deleted."

Note: Limitations to Message Deletion

  • You can only delete messages within 7 minutes of sending them. After this time, the "Delete for Everyone" option will no longer be available.
  • Both you and the recipient(s) must be using the latest version of WhatsApp for the message deletion to work properly.
  • Deleting a message for everyone will not remove the message from notifications or archive it within the recipient's device. They will still be able to see the message preview in the notification center.

WhatsApp's "Delete for Everyone" feature adds an extra layer of control and privacy to your conversations. By following these steps, you can easily delete messages for everyone involved in the chat, ensuring that any unintentional or regrettable messages are erased.