Soon, you might be able to 'unsend' messages on Messenger
Facebook users might soon get the ability to retract messages sent on the company's Messenger platform. The feature, which was announced earlier this year, was spotted in a recent set of screenshots, as reported by TechCrunch. When launched, it will let users remove messages from their as well as the recipient's end in a conversation. Here are the details.
First look at the 'Unsend Message' button
Facebook confirmed the ability to retract messages back in April, but it didn't reveal the timelines for the same. Now, the popular tipster Jane Manchun Wong has given us a sneak peek into the 'unsend' button. The feature, as Wong's screenshots suggested, would come in the form of a dedicated 'Unsend Message' button.
Screenshots of the 'Unsend' feature
Working of the feature
Wong found the prototyped button while digging into Facebook Messenger for Android. It appeared along with the regular 'Delete Message' option after long-pressing a particular message in a conversation. On selecting it, a confirmation pop-up appeared that read, "Your message will be removed from the chat, and you". On confirmation, the selected messages would be deleted.
Also, the time limit for 'unsend' remains unknown
Notably, Wong also found signs of a time limit in the code of the app. This suggests users would have limited time to delete a message after sending it in the first place. It could range between a few seconds to minutes but still remains to be confirmed. Gmail users get a 30-second unsend window, while WhatsApp's messages can be retracted in 7 minutes.
Notably, Facebook has not revealed any release date
Further, it is worth noting that Facebook has confirmed that the feature is in testing stage. "Facebook internally tests products and features before they ship to the public so we can ensure the quality of the experience," the company said. However, it didn't reveal when it will start rolling out to users across the globe.
