In a move that bridges the gap between casual messaging and organized scheduling, WhatsApp has begun testing a new feature that allows users to create events and appointments directly within one-on-one chats. The update, currently rolling out to beta testers on Android (version 2.25.3.6), marks a significant shift in how the platform’s 2 billion users might coordinate plans, from doctor’s appointments to dinner dates, without leaving the app.
For years, WhatsApp has been a hub for group event planning, enabling users to set reminders for birthdays, meetings, or virtual gatherings in group chats. Now, the Meta-owned platform is expanding this functionality to individual conversations. The feature, spotted in the latest beta release, lets users create events with specific dates, times, descriptions, and even reminders—all within a private chat.
How It Works
According to details shared by WABetaInfo, a trusted source for WhatsApp updates, the feature is elegantly simple. Users tapping the “+” icon (or paperclip symbol) in a chat will now see a new “Event” option alongside staples like photos, documents, and polls. Once selected, they can input event details, customize reminders, and send it as a message. The recipient can view the event, confirm participation, or add it directly to their calendar.
The embedded event card mirrors functionality seen in apps like Google Calendar or Calendly but operates within WhatsApp’s familiar interface. This could reduce the need for third-party scheduling tools, especially in regions where WhatsApp dominates daily communication.
Why This Matters
While group events are useful for coordinating with multiple people, one-on-one event planning is often more personal and time-sensitive. Imagine a patient booking a telehealth consultation via their doctor’s WhatsApp, a freelancer aligning project deadlines with a client, or friends setting a lunch date without juggling multiple apps. The feature also includes automated reminders, reducing the risk of missed appointments.
“This update reflects WhatsApp’s push to become an all-in-one communication tool,” says tech analyst Priya Kumar. “By integrating scheduling into private chats, they’re catering to users who rely on the app for both personal and professional interactions—especially in markets where WhatsApp is the default messaging platform.”
Beta Testing and Future Plans
The feature is currently limited to Android beta testers, with no official word on its iOS release or global rollout. However, insiders suggest that Meta is fast-tracking development, aiming for a public release by late 2024.
Notably, the event feature is end-to-end encrypted, aligning with WhatsApp’s privacy-first ethos. This ensures sensitive details, like medical appointments or business meetings, remain secure.
User Reactions
Early testers have praised the tool’s simplicity. “I used it to schedule a job interview,” said beta user Raj Patel. “No more back-and-forth emails—just a quick event sent via chat, and the candidate confirmed instantly.” Others hope for future integrations, such as syncing WhatsApp events with Google Calendar or Apple’s iCloud.
The Bigger Picture
This update is part of WhatsApp’s broader strategy to compete with super-apps like WeChat, which blend messaging, payments, and services. Recent additions like Channels, voice note statuses, and AI-powered stickers highlight Meta’s ambition to keep users engaged within WhatsApp’s ecosystem.
As the line between messaging and productivity continues to blur, WhatsApp’s event feature could redefine how we manage time—one chat at a time.
For beta testers eager to try the feature, ensure your app is updated to version 2.25.3.6 via the Google Play Store. Meanwhile, the rest of us will wait (im)patiently for our turn to say goodbye to scheduling headaches.
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