You can now plan group events on WhatsApp: Here's how
What's the story
WhatsApp is launching a new tool designed to simplify the planning and organization of events within group chats. This feature aims to make coordinating both online and physical gatherings easier for various groups, including friends, educational institutions, local communities, and other organizations. The event planning tool will function similarly to e-vite services that distribute invitations via email.
Functionality
Detailed look at WhatsApp's event planning feature
Events created on WhatsApp will be prominently displayed on the group's information page and will have a dedicated group chat thread. This setup allows all members to easily see who's attending, hear reasons from those who can't make it, and confirm who is bringing what. The design of this feature aims to keep all participants updated about the event's specifics.
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WhatsApp enhances "Announcement Groups" with reply function
In addition to the event planning tool, WhatsApp is also improving its "Announcement Groups" with a new reply function. This feature allows members to add comments and feedback for the admin while keeping the replies minimized and the chat muted. The update aims to encourage active participation in discussions without overwhelming others with excessive notifications.
Access
Initial access to event planning tool via WhatsApp communities
Initially, the event planning tool will be available to groups within WhatsApp Communities before being extended to all groups in due course. WhatsApp Communities is a feature of the chat app that resembles Slack or Discord, with its own message threads, group admins, and announcement functions. It also leverages WhatsApp's 32-person video calling capabilities, inviting users to join in rather than contacting everyone individually.