Snapchat will no longer be the only platform with ephemeral conversations.

Just last week, WhatsApp announced the launch of disappearing messages for all users around the globe. The feature is coming for the first time to the messaging giant although with a different objective than Snapchat’s. Whereas Snapchat conversations accentuate privacy and candour, disappearing after leaving the app or after a day at maximum, WhatsApp disappearing messages emphasize practicality and convenience with a considerably longer time span of 7 days.

Users will have an option in every chat to make all new messages disappearing. Group admins will have a similar option too. Activating the feature will make all of the chat’s messages disappear after 7 days. WhatsApp explains that they chose 7 days because they think that the time period:

“offers peace of mind that conversations aren’t permanent, while remaining practical so you don’t forget what you were chatting about. The shopping list or store address you received a few days ago will be there while you need it, and then disappear after you don’t.”

There are workarounds that will allow you to keep those messages, too. For instance, if you quote a disappearing message, the original text will be gone but not the quoted part. The same happens if you forward one to different chat without the disappearing option enabled.

We think this could come in handy to delete all the chats from delivery people asking for your location!

Learn more here.