Beta users can start using the new feature today. The rest will have to wait a while for the public rollout.

In WhatsApp’s latest beta trial, users can now edit messages after they’ve sent them. This is a convenient way to remove typos or provide more context, rather than mysteriously deleting a message and adding the correct version.

To customize your text, press and hold the speech bubble and tap the three dots in the top right. Choose there Produce and customize your message to your liking. Tap again Send and your message has been processed. A badge with the title will appear next to it Processed to indicate that you have edited the message.

WhatsApp restricts editing of chat messages. You must take action within fifteen minutes. After that, the message is final and you can only delete it if there is something wrong with it. Within those fifteen minutes, you can edit a message as many times as you like.

If necessary, this period can be extended in the future. Previously, there was also a 15-minute limit for deleting messages. After a few months, this period was extended to two days.

Customizing messages only works on the main device you are using WhatsApp on. You cannot edit messages on the web version of WhatsApp, the desktop version or on your second smartphone.

As the feature is currently only available in beta, only beta testers will see the change. Only when the public rollout takes place in the coming weeks will everyone see the adjustment and be able to edit messages themselves. To become a beta tester, you can register here with your Android device. If you own an iPhone, you still have to wait until the feature is generally available.