WhatsApp rival Viber launches 'secret chats'

The feature in now available for both Android and iOS users

Messaging platform Viber has released a new feature which will allow users to send messages in secret chat windows that self-destruct after a specific amount of time.

The latest feature called 'Secret Chats' has been designed to accommodate advanced privacy elements and allow more control to users over their conversations.



“With Secret Chats, you can set a self-destruct timer for every message in the conversation. Messages in a secret chat can’t be forwarded and screenshots are either totally unavailable or alerted to you by an instant notification in the chat screen,” read a statement on Viber’s blog.

PHOTO: VIBER

What’s interesting is that the feature also puts restrictions on the ability to take screenshots of a conversation. Android users won't be able to take screenshots when using the Secret Chat feature while iOS users can take screenshots. However, Viber will send alerts when this happens.



Viber has also added the option of having two conversation windows with the same person or group at the same time, that is, one through the regular chat and one through secret chat. Protected conversation marked with a lock symbol on the top will differentiate them secret chats from other chat windows.

“Our goal is to continue to bring you features that will enable you to communicate without limitation and without hesitation,” says Viber.

The feature is now available for both Android and iOS users.