Billions of WhatsApp users can unlock secret ‘message editing’ – how to access

IF you’ve ever sent the perfect message when using WhatsApp only to find shortly after that there’s a typo completely changing its meaning, there’s a great update headed your way. 

Earlier this month, WhatsApp launched a Web Beta program for users to test new features, bugs, and provide feedback to better the messaging platform. 

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In the latest version of the beta program, the company is allowing users to edit messages already sent. 

First spotted by WABetaInfo, the feature allows beta testers to edit messages within 15 minutes of being sent in individual chats or groups. 

Users will have the ability to edit messages multiple times. 

There appears to be no initial message history, meaning users will not be able to view the original message. 

Given the time limit, the editing function appears to be focused on typos and grammatical errors, rather than giving access to alert an entire conversation. 

According to reports, only text messages are able to be edited so far, though there may be more improvements in the future. 

In order to access WhatsApp feature, all users have to do is select the message they wish to edit and open its menu options. 

Then, they will see a list of options such as delete message, reply, and edit message. 

Once selecting “edit message,” users will then be taken to a new window to make the necessary changes. 

Hitting the check mark in the bottom right corner will confirm the edits. 

Then, the message will feature an “Edited” tag to inform all parties that the message was altered. 

The editing feature is only available for beta users on v2.2319.9 and above of the Web beta program. 

There is no current availability to edit messages on WhatsApp’s mobile app. 

However, according to WABetaInfo, the platform is planning to roll out the feature to more users in the coming weeks – including those using the mobile app. 

The timeline of the roll out was not immediately clear.

Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, did not immediately respond to The US Sun’s request for comment.

How to get WhatsApp beta

Getting access to WhatsApp beta varies depending on your device.

If you have an Android, open Google Play  and search for WhatsApp.

Scroll down until you find “Become a Beta Tester”.

Then, tap the “I’m In” button and then select “Join” to confirm.

Next, wait for the update to the beta version of the platform.

If you are looking to join with an iPhone, follow Apple’s guide here.