Turn off Read Receipts
WhatsApp users can easily turn off the read receipts feature to stop showing their last seen status. The read receipts feature allows users to see when a message has been received and read by the other party. When the feature is turned off, a grey double tick will be displayed, and the sender will not know if the message has been read or not. It is important to keep in mind that when you turn off read receipts, you will also not be able to see if the other person has read your messages.
To turn off read receipts:
Step 1: Open WhatsApp
Step 2: Click on the three dots in the top right corner of the app
Step 3: Go to Settings > Account > Privacy
Step 4: Toggle off ‘Read receipts.’
Using Airplane mode
Another trick to stop the seen status on WhatsApp is to use airplane mode on your phone. When you enable airplane mode on your device, it disconnects your smartphone from the internet and blocks all incoming messages. This means that you can read the WhatsApp message without activating the seen feature. However, it is important to keep in mind that your device must remain in airplane mode until you have read the message entirely. Failing to do so, the message will be marked as seen when you go back online.
To use airplane mode:
Step 1: Open WhatsApp
Step 2: Enable airplane mode on your smartphone
Step 3: Launch WhatsApp and read the message
Step 4: Close the app and turn off airplane mode
Using WhatsApp Widget
WhatsApp Widget is another feature that can stop the ‘seen status’ from showing up on your WhatsApp chats. The feature allows WhatsApp users to read the incoming messages without having to actually open the app. The benefit of using this feature is that the message will not be marked as seen until you actually read it inside the app. Therefore, the sender will not receive the read receipt notification.
To use WhatsApp widget:
Step 1: Long press an empty space on your smartphone’s home screen
Step 2: Select ‘Widgets’ and search for the WhatsApp Widget
Step 3: Drag and drop the widget to your screen
Step 4: Resize the widget and place it wherever you want.
Final Words
In conclusion, WhatsApp is a great way to keep in touch with loved ones and colleagues. However, the seen status feature may not always be desirable. These tricks can help you stay incognito in group discussions or individual chats. Before turning off the read receipts, ensure that you trust the persons whom you are communicating with and think about what the reaction(s) will be if you are seen ignoring their messages intentionally. It is always good to have a reason why you may not be able to reply to a message on time without disrespecting the other person. Remember, communication is key, and if you don’t want to, or can’t answer someone at that moment, it’s okay to say so.